Nailing it in the Nagles

Or not getting nailed in the Nagles (mountain range that border Cork and Tipp)

I Was up in the north cork venue yesterday which is set to host the second round of the XC nps on sunday next and from the brief look i had at the track i think that this will be an excellent and true MOUNTAIN bike race and a complete change from the small loop in a forest format which is the norm at these things usually.

The area is vast (for ireland) and wild and the track is 100% natural, the climb is techy and will keep you 'distracted'! with the constant attention to your line, you then float along some narrow track at the top, on the plateau before hurtling down the rock strewn descent near the end of the lap, this descent is tricky and tiring as it goes on for a good bit, but it is very intuitive and kinda brilliant as it has multiple lines and combo's and is unique in XC NPs races, its much more Mealagh Valley than Tracton.

Also every time you ride it its different as the rocks move around son much when you ride it, so after 150 riders do it 3 or 4 times it should be interesting :)
I found my shoulders tired after one run on it, similar to a DH i suppose, but sure there is plenty time for tired arms to recover as you start the 10-15 minute tech climb again on your next lap.

I predict a record number of mechanicals. Maybe a Hospitalisation and i think that anyone on a full susser will do well. The length of the race will be at the upper limit of these races too so a steady approach will serve best.
All in All this is an All mountain NPS.

So if anyone is ever thinking of doing an NPS this is the one that will suit yee best and its only 85 mins up the road and i know MBCC have put in a load of effort so should be supported. I hear there is a load of food free after too !