The August Bank Holiday weekend surprised us with a mini heat wave (too hot for some!). Twenty participants from around the UK turned up for two days of top quality coaching from Martin Watkins, Dagmar Junghanns and Adam Pinney, with each of the coaches covering all aspects of classic and skate skiing technique.

Alasdair organised the all-comers race on Saturday afternoon, part of the 2019 GB roller-ski race series, with great competition particularly from some of the GB Nordic Juniors who made the trip down from Scotland. And a particularly impressive performance too from ex-Olympian Martin Watkins.

Many thanks to our three coaches. And especial thanks to Alasdair and others from Tyneside Loipers for the efficient smooth running of the event, at short notice, with the ‘organiser’ undergoing lifesaving surgery in the RVI! Greatly appreciated having such a good bunch of club mates to take over when needed!

The route took in 3 shooting huts (courtesy of the Allendale Estate) which meant that we had 3 comfortable stops for morning coffee, lunch and afternoon tea! The final distance was a mere 35km but there were plenty of climbs and descents and plenty of challenge – thanks Mark! Looking forward to another ride soon.