Euan McConnell and fellow Galloway Hillbillies Mark Wilcox and Jamie McCreath ventured to Ae Forest on the weekend to take part in the Crazy Ass Challenge run by bike shop owners Robert and Mary. The event was aimed at attracting mountain bikers to the trails in the “big freeze” when most people were curled up by a warm fire or enjoying a few pints at the local pub.

 

Entrants had to complete just one lap of the 3km snow-covered circuit, which included a giant climb and then a descent of the Omega Man downhill trail. The aim was simple... the first man (or woman) to the finish, would collect £50 cash.

 

After a slow start the Hillbillies headed to the front with Euan in the lead. The lanky Scot managed to get away from the pack with the cash in mind and the hope of getting back into the warmth. The climb was only manageable on foot and he ran his Specialized up the hill as fast as he could, with the rest of the pack trailing behind. After a few sketchy moments, McConnell traversed down the hill and scored the top prize. Wilcox was second and McCreath fourth.

 

“Thanks to Robert and Mary for this ‘different’ event”, said McConnell. “I have had 15 years of racing motorbikes and never won a bean. It was nice to earn some cash for racing!”