This year at Crankworx, a small but formidable group of adaptive riders represented adaptive mountain biking.
L t R: Bruce Knegt, James Littlejohn, Richard Purcell - Image courtesy Rachel Hadfield
Due to the quick turnaround from Crankworx being the series opener this year, when it was the series finale in November last year meant a number of previous riders who had raced weren’t able to attend again so soon. Nevertheless, local rider Richard Purcell (55) and James Littlejohn (46) returned, along with first-time Crankworx rider Bruce Knegt (60). All aMTB riders were of the two-wheeled variety, and all being well and truly within a senior age category, they found the Hipster event more than suitable a race than the AirDH event, which took in sections of the more technical trail Mr Black.
L t R: James Littlejohn, Richard Purcell, Bruce Knegt - Image courtesy Izzac Knegt
All the riders had a fantastic time and expressed hope for more competitors to race with them next year. They also enjoyed showcasing the sport and hope a younger generation will come take up the mantle soon. James Littlejohn said, “It's such an awesome event. I really hope we can get more competitors to race. If we get enough of each variety, we can potentially look to have categories for two or three wheels (and ages). The team from Crankworx has always made adaptive riders feel welcome, and the inclusion of adaptive categories at their events is now the norm. Although adaptive mountain biking isn't always about competing, having adaptive riders at this world-class event showcases the potential of the sport and advocates for its inclusion. #AdaptMTB aims to continue showcasing the sport and advocating for its inclusion.