End to End (E2E) on the Isle of Man

Si, Liz and Spiny have been over to the Isle of Man for the annual End to End mountain bike race which is 43 miles long and includes approximately 5000 feet of climbing! They decided to stay 5 days on the Island with Buster and Marion prior to the race in order to train and since the weather was superb, the boys got some quality paragliding done including an 8 mile out and back coastal cliff run in the early evening sunshine.

One day the wind was blowing a nice force six and the surf was good so the windsurfers were dragged out. Si got battered in the surf as his fin broke but legged it back down the beach for a spare. Interestingly, the boys met Oldham local hero Dougie Hall, who settled on the Island a few years ago and who looks nearly as handy on a board as he did on the rock. If you don't already know of the man then check out the Chew Valley climbs guide – there are several photos of him doing his stuff.

As for the End to End race, the weather and conditions on the day were superb and everyone we talked to had a fantastic time. Si and Spiny ended up joint 12th so no fighting there! Thanks to Tom Braithwaite for the loan of a superb Rotwild hardtail mountain bike for the event - didn't really fancy 43 miles on a 40lb long travel Bullitt... Much respect and our thanks must go to Graham who along with a team of dedicated helpers does a fantastic job in putting together a classic event. Check out the full details on the Manx Mountain Bike Club's website.

We've said it before and we'll say it again, the Isle of Man is a cracking place with friendly folk, beautiful scenery, fantastic sport and a laid back attitude. It's well worth a visit...

Isle of Man Guide

Isle of Man Website

Manx Mountain Bike Club

Postscript: Si and Spiny (and an ever growing bunch of visiting mates) have raced at the E2E every year since (except for 2007). Best time so far was Si at 3 hours 42 minutes. On that occasion he was carrying the helmet camera for a Sky TV programme.