I knew Shergie and Andrew from our endeavours as pronghorn riders and racers, to which I still had plenty to talk about. I was quite negative at the time of its coming to an end, but out of it came some great friendships. So, this weekend I also got to meet Stuart and Tom and needless to say I think they are cracking blokes. To cut a long story short I managed to wreck Stuarts new forks (it is sorted now thankfully). But when I spoke to Stuart recently I said that in a mad hour during the weekend we managed to break three bikes but made some great friends (but that's mountain biking for you).
Anyway, fast forward couple of weeks and there were some further developments locally that have really made me smile. My local shop and team arranged a meeting mid week to sort out next year. I was just going to do what I normally do and just ride what I can when I can and keep my head down. Anyway it looks like I will be riding with not only my mates, including Mick who is a national champ; but also a professional mountain biker and all round top fella.
I cannot say much more than this because they have contracts, but needless to say this person has been on the podium in a world cup!!!
Its amazing to think that I will be riding in the same kit and might even compete in the same events, I never saw this coming. I genuinely am grateful that http://www.sherwoodpinescycles.co.uk/ have let me be part of this. However it looks like I might have to step up the training and be a bit more focused, and a little less my normal beer swilling self.
This morning I got out for a couple of hours and hit the local Kitchener Trail, this picture was from the early part of the trail and captures what Sherwood is about. Look out for team Sherwood Pines next year, I will try to keep people updated; but also because also we have new riders and old ones who might surprise us and get some results (no pressure Jon).