Report for the Matt Russell Memorial Trial Nodewell Farm
The annual Matt Russell Memorial Trial was held on Sunday 6th November at Nodewell Farm, Totland. The Club would like to thank the Morgan Family for welcoming us back for this special event. Very many thanks also to Viki Taylor for her excellent camera skills.
Remembering Matt Russell
Matt was a popular and a well-liked member of the Club. He was an accomplished Intermediate class rider who tragically and suddenly lost his life at the age of just twenty-nine.
His close friend, Ross Haydon assisted by Keith Jacobs were the course setters. Matt’s Dad, Tony Russell accompanied by Simon Morgan presented the ‘Matt Russell Cup’ to Andy Scott-Jackson, winner of the Intermediate class.
Presentations were also made to Chris Stay (best Expert) and to the best Twin shock rider, Ross Haydon. Simon contacted me after the trial to say that Tony was touched by all the support and kind words from the riders – and to thank everyone involved. So very well done to all of you.
Stiff competition
Now to the trial itself – Andy Scott-Jackson won the Intermediate class by the narrowest of margins, just a single mark separating him from returning rider James Stay. This being James’s first trial for twelve years or so – James must be pleased with that – an excellent effort.
Stuart Gummer finished in third place. Meanwhile James’s Brother, Chris Stay was the clear winner in the Expert class, completing the trial for a total of just four dropped marks. Simon Newnham persevered, despite finding some of the sections a little difficult, to take second place and importantly seven Championship points.
The well contested Novice class was once again won by the improving Ben Brodie – a cushion of ten marks between him and second place rider Mike Taylor with John Coombes in third. Ben should be more than happy with this result as both Mike and John normally compete in the more difficult Inter class!
Four Twin Shock riders headed up by the clear winner Ross Haydon on his Fantic machine. Ross finished the trial with the lowest score of the day, only three dropped marks – good effort Ross. Rory Stephens and Alan Gosden’s scores were tied on thirteen, Rory was awarded second place notching up more cleans. Stewart Freeman finished in fourth.
Phil Silvester took the win in the Adult Beginner’s from Steve Chase in second, sections three and five proved decisive. Young Harvey Grieve was the only rider in the Youth Novices. He never the less put in an excellent performance, his total of twenty-nine was better than most of the Adults on the same route!
Harrison Crickmore should also be pleased with his win in the Youth Beginners, dropping a miserly five marks. Alfie Haydon also finished with a very respectable total to land second spot. Returning rider, Matt Power took third with Josh Morris in fourth – very well done lads.
Next trial
The next Club trial (Ted Phillips Cup) will be held on Sunday 27th November, the usual start time of twelve noon applies. Please keep an eye on the Club Website where the full details will be published, once finalised.
Image: © Viki Taylor
