THE Fourth and last round of Gawton Gravity Hub's Downhill winter series was held on Sunday, amid the April showers at the Tavistock Woodlands site. 

A slightly easier fun track to end the series, attracted a wider range of racing abilities and encouraged some new first time riders.

The track choice worked and even though the tempermental weather and mud made it trickier than normal, it was a record 104 riders that took on the challenge.

The 'Open' track starts with a muddy, rooty sweep though the top woods before coming to a tricky rock section. Line choice here was critical to set you up for the fast open section and down the aptly named 'Corkscrew.'

Hands off the brakes and through the 'Rock Drop' before the flat sprint to the muddiest part of the track. Over the 'Gorse Jumps' for a final hard pedal through 50m of tricky roots and over the finish line.

First time racer Chris Jones rode a custom three wheel bike which he pedals with his arms due to a permanant leg injury — showed a great deal of courage to ride these tracks which can be hard to even walk down.

All of the race results and times can be found on http://www.woodlandriders-racing.co.uk">www.woodlandriders-racing.co.uk.

Highlights of the day were Dartmoor Cycles owner Andy Boyle taking his third win of the series in the master catergory. Local favourite Jon Credicott won the Hardtail section.

Sally Elland from Outlaw Riders won her first serious race in the ladies group and finally in the all important Elite section, Jay Williamson set a blistering time in the mud to take a well deserved win. 

Organisers thanked all the sponsors, marshalls, racers and spectators and especially Chaz and Mandy Lamley for making this series a huge success.