Inter Centre Team Trial 2026
Previous years: 2013, Youth 2013, 2011, 2010, 2009.
Team Manager's Report
Having had a fantastic weekend away supporting the western centre riders at the ICTT, I just want to say what a privilege it was to be involved and represent the centre.
The most pleasing aspect from my point of view was how everyone helped and supported each other, everything from discussing lines in sections, to last minute bike prep and repairs and all being gathered around on the Saturday discussing the results and having a great time together.
There were so many stand out aspects, Ryan joining us at very late notice, the whole Pekala/Dayment clan up and making a holiday of it, riders out of their comfort zones but having a go at huge steps, a certain minder covering most of the very long lap six times over the weekend (and giving up his wedding anniversary). But a special mention should go to Harry Bishop, because despite not having a ride himself he supported us brilliantly, fetching tools and spares,, carrying drinks and snacks, and following Fred round pumping his back tyre up every other section, proving himself a valuable member of the team..
Congratulations to all, especially the twin shock boys. It was a huge pleasure to be involved. Let's do it again next year
ACU Inter-Centre Team Trial 15/16 August 2026, North Eastern Centre - Ben's Press Report
Eight ACU Western riders and support crew made the 600 mile round trip to the Inter-Centre Team Trial and returned with great credit and memories - and some silverware.
The Saturday of the event run by Bedlington MC saw the Twin Shock and Junior Girls teams do battle with centres from across the country - and rocks which the northern events are renowned for.
The Twin Shock Team of Kurt Brain, Richard Jenkins and Ryan Woodward pulled a great team performance together, led by Kurt on 3 marks lost, with Richard chipping in on 21 and Ryan on 27. Kurt produced the joint-best individual ride of the day and the team finished on 51. That was plenty good enough to secure second place to the Scottish Centre, and well clear of East Yorkshire in a field of eight teams in this class.
On the same day the Youth Girls team of Ellyn Welch and Kasia Pekala-Dayment finished third in class and although there were only three teams entered, the girls put themselves on the national stage and performed well.
The Sunday saw the Expert route team of Joe Bendall, John Luff and Fred Bishop do battle with the rocks at Longframlington and eight other teams. It turned out to be a friendly battle conducted in a sporting way with the Wessex Centre of Lee Hassall, David Maslin and Darren Butcher and just seven marks separated the two teams, 226 to 233.
Special thanks must go to the support crew of Team Manager Shaun Brammer, Harry Bishop and Simon Welch. Shaun organised the teams, set up an ACU Western base, and made sure the riders and supporters had everything they needed. Harry rode round on his mountainbike all day with spares and refreshments for the riders, and Simon walked six laps of the venue which ensured he slept well afterwards!
The Centre - made up of the clubs of which we are all members - supported team members with £100 each towards the costs of competing in the event, and is grateful to all of them for representing the centre so well.
Results: SACU Facebook page