And a Happy New Year...
By John Dickinson on 3rd Jan 14
And so we speed into 2014 and for many of us the New Year will happen without even breaking step.
At the sharp end of the trials world, the Sheffield X-Trial gets things rolling for the 19th year in succession and trials fans will be off to watch the genius that is Toni Bou – and to see if anyone can even get close!
Meanwhile, for those with slightly less lofty ambitions, there are a whole host of club and centre trials for those who want to get out on their bikes rather than just watch.
And if entries in the New Year are anything like they were at the close of 2013, clubs are in for a feast as, just checking the reports we received for publication at the tail-end of the year, entries of around the three figure mark were almost the rule rather then the exception.
Taking all aspects of the sport into consideration, trials, motocross and enduro, it is doubtful that there have ever been so many Championships – or so many organisations running them – from which to choose.
On the trials front, there are National series to cater for every type of rider mounted on every possible type of bike.
On the motocross and enduro front it is the same story with more than enough events, although the political landscape is much less settled.
In trials the ACU pretty much rules the roost with the AMCA being strong in some areas, particularly in Pre-65 club events.
MX sees, quite frankly, an organisational battleground with ACU, AMCA, MCF, BSMA and, coming up strongly on the rails, ORMS, all fighting for Championship kudos – and all fighting for tracks.
Now, I'm all for some good old-fashioned honest competition and the ACU, the first and only FIM recognised body, certainly did much (or alternatively did nothing) to bring about much of the current competition.
Speaking purely for myself, I now believe we are in overkill regarding organisations. Being split into so many factions is not good when it comes to dealing with outside forces. More than ever two-wheel motorcycle sport needs to speak with one voice and yet on the off-road front we have never been as divided.
And I know for a fact that some track owners are rubbing their hands with glee, as the different organisations are effectively engaged in an open auction to pay the most for dates in the calendar.
However much they end up paying, I hardly need remind you who actually ends up forking-out.
Just work the cost backwards...
Regardless, it will all ultimately work its own way out in the end. These things always do.
Meanwhile, you pays your money and you takes your choice. Happy New Year!
