Mountain bike adventure for determined cadets

Over the summer members of the CCF participated in a mountain bike expedition, taking on a challenge set by the Scottish 7Stanes Mountain Bike Trials.

Leading up to this challenge the group completed the intermediate course in Delamere and the advanced course in North Wales. These were to help prepare the group for the longer distances and arduous terrain ahead.

The 7stanes are seven mountain biking centre spanning the south of Scotland, from the heart of the Scottish Borders to Dumfries and Galloway. However, ‘stane’ is the Scottish word for stone, and at each of the 7Stane locations you will find a unique stone sculpture – a stane – reflecting a local myth or legend. It also provides some truly unique mountain bike trail experiences and challenges, which vary in grades and distance.

The determination to complete the trails was evident from the cadets who threw themselves into every challenge the course presented. The odd scrape and cut was soon dressed and they robustly carried on.

The phrase ‘that was madness but great fun’ summarised the trip and laughs, giggles and stories of ‘how I nearly’ will live in the memories of all. The isolation of Marthrown of Mabie also allowed the cadets precious time away to further develop skills of communication and teamwork.