THE fifth round of the Scottish XC MTB series, which doubled as the Scottish Championships took place at Badaguish Outdoor Centre, Aviemore on Sunday, August 23. After a wet start, the sun made its appearance for the rest of the day, even when accompanied by a gusty north westerly wind.

The main 3.4 mile course consisted of an initial fire road climb (that was perfect for stretching out the riders) before turning single track for a steep and technical wood climb.

A tricky rocky outcrop at the top of the hill tested the nerve of the most intrepid riders before various single track loops (including steep descents and fierce climbs) brought the riders back onto a lower fire road for the final relentless climb towards the finish line.

A strong field of PCC riders turned up on the day, and many of them were regarded with podium places.

In the 11am races Anna McGorum (holder of a Clubsport Tweeddale grant this season) was second both in the Juvenile female race and in the Championships, while fellow PCC member Jennifer Watt finished fourth in the same race and third in the Championships and Emily Wilkinson sixth on the day.

In the Juvenile male race, Corran Carrick-Anderson finished a remarkable fifth (considering he is riding up a category this season), while Calum Johnson was ninth and Russell Brown eleventh.

In the Youth female, Louisa Watt finished third both in her race and in the Championships, while fellow PCC member Megan Wilkinson followed her in fourth.

The adult pm races saw Carrick Crawford-Anderson finishing fourth among the male veterans, and just missing on a third position by seconds after having had to deal with a puncture on his first lap.

The under 12s course was also technically challenging with off canvas sections, roots aplenty and unforgiving climbs.

The under 8s boys was dominated by Sandy Mackay, while Daisy Wilson finished seventh in the under 8s girls.

In the Under 10s Rory Laidlaw (KICC rider who also attends PCC kids club) was second boy, while another two PCC riders were in the podium for the girls, Emily Carrick-Anderson and Christina McGorum, first and third respectively.

More PCC podiums places came in the under 12s - Callum Thorley, who claims PCC as second club, finished first boy claiming the Scottish champ title, David Cathcart was third boy and Elena McGorum, first under 12 girl and under 12 female Scottish champion.

Overall, a memorable racing day on a wonderful venue. Well done to all the PCC youngsters on their brilliant performance!