The final round of the Lloyds Bank National Downhill Series at Rhyd y Felin saw Matt Walker and Jess Stone triumph on a slick and treacherous course, with Stone and Adam Brayton taking home the overall series wins in the elite categories.
The notoriously unpredictable Welsh weather played a pivotal role in the weekend's racing. Thick cloud and persistent rain turned the track into a slippery challenge, particularly in the lower field sections where many riders saw their podium hopes vanish.
Throughout the morning practice, the challenging conditions led to multiple red flags, as riders struggled to put together complete runs without mishaps. The technical course featured a variety of terrain, from root-laden forest singletrack to slick shale berms, finishing with a fast but slippery sprint across the lower fields. While many riders navigated the toughest sections with skill, it was the seemingly straightforward lower field transition that claimed the most victims.
Elite
The competition in the elite open category was fierce, with the leaderboard constantly shifting. Joe Breeden set the fastest first split, but it was Matt Walker who delivered the cleanest and quickest run of the day, securing the top spot in 3:08.930. Adam Brayton, who suffered a slip in the treacherous lower fields, fought hard to make up time but finished just short of Walker. Despite missing out on the win, Brayton’s strong season ensured he took home the overall National Series title.
In the elite women’s race, Louise Ferguson looked poised for victory after setting the fastest times in the first and second splits, but a mistake near the finish cost her the win. Jess Stone capitalised, putting in a solid and consistent run to take the top spot. Stone’s victory also secured her the overall National Series title.
Junior
The junior open race saw similar drama. Sorley Swabey posted the fastest first split but lost time after a slip in the lower fields, ultimately finishing sixth. Meanwhile, George Madley held his nerve and stormed to victory in this highly competitive category, clocking 3:18.468.
Heather Wilson dominated the junior women’s category, finishing over 30 seconds ahead of her nearest competitor on 4:26.929. Her commanding performance was one of the standout moments of the day.
With Round 5 marking the conclusion of the Lloyds Bank National Downhill Series, both round winners and series champions were crowned. Despite the challenging conditions, the riders delivered thrilling performances, making this final round one to remember. Congratulations to Matt Walker, Jess Stone, Adam Brayton, and all the other winners on a fantastic series.
