By Isle of Wight Observer
Juvenile riders, Finley Manser-Grundy and Sonny Shuttleworth, were in action at round four of the MIJ Downhill Series, at Worcester Lodge, Forest of Dean, on Sunday.
The pair raced on the infamous ‘Elephant Man’ track, a challenging double-black run packed with jumps, drops, and technical rock gardens.
Sonny, competing in the 10-12-year-old category, was going well in practice until he slid out on a wet root section and hit a tree. Despite being shaken and nursing a sore shoulder, he showed determination to take to the start line a couple of hours later.
Overnight rain had transformed the previously dry course, with slippery roots and rock sections catching out riders throughout the field. Sonny battled through the difficult conditions to complete two solid runs.
Finley Manser-Grundy racing also celebrated another podium, with Finn taking second place in the 7-9 category.
On his first run, Finn suffered a pinch puncture half way down the course, but completed the remainder on a completely flat tyre, finishing second, just 0.4 seconds off the lead.
After repairing the tyre and straightening the rim, Finn improved his time on his second run, despite worsening conditions, finishing just 0.1 seconds behind the winner to secure second overall.
Dad, Jack, said: “We’re incredibly proud of how Finn handled the setback, kept his focus, and delivered two strong runs. A brilliant learning experience and another step forward in his racing journey.”