MRS Sherco’s Sam Connor takes Mitchell win

win
By Carly Rathmell
May 27 2004

MRS Sherco rider Sam Connor took his first ever British Championship win at the weekend. Connor, fresh from his second place at the Scottish-Six-Day-Trial, came into his element at the second Colin Appleyard sponsored British Championship round in Wales.

Held amongst some stunning scenery in Pentwyn, Abersychan, Connor was on a mission to gain the win. Looking confident from the start, it was obvious that it was going to be a low scoring trial, and all the riders had to be on the top of their game. In baking sunshine, first round winner Steve Colley had a rough start to the day when he dropped two marks on the second section. With Connor’s final score being only two Colley had already got himself into problems.

Sam was riding exceptionally well, and was adamant that he would stay inch perfect all day. With him was minder and uncle Malcolm Rathmell - the former British Champion - there to ensure that Connor kept his feet on the pegs. With current British Champion and fellow Sherco rider Graham Jarvis, who this year has opted to compete in the Spanish Championship to help further his World Championship hopes. It is Malcolm who has now been delegated the task of guiding Connor in the right direction.

A delighted Sam commented, “It’s been a great day today and it’s a great feeling to take my first British Championship win. It wasn’t a tricky trial but silly mistakes could have really made a difference. I’d like to thank my team, family and sponsors for helping me out with everything this year, and hope I can get some more results like this in the future.”

MITCHELL TRIAL RESULTS
1 Sam Connor, Sherco · 2
2 Shaun Morris, Gas Gas · 4
3 Steve Colley, Gas Gas · 6
4 Ian Austermuhle, Beta · 9
5 Michael Phillipson, Beta · 9