This years first World Cup rounds were centred on the little town of Tapolca near Lake Balaton in Hungary. Our accommodation was a pretty little hotel in an old mill next to the side of the mill pond, very tranquil (except for the clock tower bongs at 6am). The food both at the events, in the event centre and the local restaurants was excellent and I enjoyed sampling the local specialities, though I do like paprika !
Hungary’s IOF advisor, Sandor, and his team, as always, provided excellent organisation, from the event office to the races themselves. MTBO in this region is characterised by open grasslands rising up to scrubland and forest on the slopes above, criss crossed by various vehicle and animal tracks, some large and very fast some tiny and technically challenging. In Hungary you are generally also allowed to cycle anywhere so options to cut across bring a new route choice challenge, particularly to those riders from countries where this is normally prohibited.
The addition of the derelict Army base for the sprint this year was brilliant and all riders I think would like more of this sort of exciting terrain.
These World Cup races were the 3rd year in a 4 year plan where the culmination is the hosting of the World Championships (Elite, Junior and Masters) 2012. As well as live results published to the internet, live GPS tracking was trialled which I believe was a success and it is the intention to use it next year together with live commentary to bring the exciting racing to virtual spectators all around the world.
With the 2012 Champs looking like the best yet, its a ‘no brainer’ to want to go to next years races, its more of an issue for me deciding what I would like to ride – Elite or Masters as next year I will be eligible for both !
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