The New England Mountain Bikers (NEMTB) teams took on all comers at the Grafton 12hr on the weekend and came off dominating in all categories. A 12hr mountain biking event consists of teams or individuals continually doing laps of a designated mountain bike trail for the period of 12 hours. This style of event is difficult at the best of time but in the face of extreme weather it becomes even more difficult. The event was eventually cut short due to an electrical storm 9 1/2 hours in. NEMTB results started with the Altitude Bikes team of Greg Manttan, Peter Hosking and David Harris who took the lead after 4 laps and were never headed.  They went on to win the open teams and the overall title for the team who completed the most laps. Michael Norris and Kirby Knowles both took on the course alone and managed great results. Kirby on her first outing winning her category and Michael had a strong second to Sean Bekkers (another Armidale regular).
Once again the Armidale juniors proved to be a serious force.  The NEMTB team of Emily Wooster, Michael Harris, Katherine Hosking and Isabella Hosking were just pipped into second. As usual they were racing against riders much older than them.  Katherine was the second fastest female rider on the day which is an extraordinary effort for someone who is 12 years old.
It was a great result for a club that is growing in confidence and skill and continues to dominate the Northern NSW mountain biking scene. Check out the club website www.nemtb.com.au for all upcoming mountain biking events and rides.  The next event is the continuation of the Monday afternoon training sessions and rides at Sport UNE track at 4.30 pm.  Claim the date!  The UNE 12 Hours In The Piney is on again in 2013.  Keep Sat March 23 free for this great race.