Ambassador Series
As part of this years’ Anti-social Social we introduce our Ambassador Series, designed for you to get to know more about the people who help to make the magic happen at Ride Sheffield.
We asked our Ambassadors five topical questions and here are their answers….
Pat Horscroft
Q.1. Which MTB trail got you through lockdown?
Anything as soon as I left the house – such a release to hear the birdsong and watch the natural year evolve. We are so blessed with the Peak District on our doorstep.
Q.2. How did MTBing become part of your life?
I originally believed mountain biking was riding over tussocky fields in Nottingham! However, Sheffield showed me the error of my ways, at age 60. It was hard work getting the simple things right: body position, cone of movement, weight transfer, efficient gearing, cornering, braking, looking ahead, uphill and downhill skills, so many things to get just right. Skiing, climbing, judo and yoga gave me a considerable advantage, with balance, spatial awareness, body position and, of course, falling off! But, it all takes time and is soooo worthwhile when it starts to come together.
Now 77, definitely much fitter and although uphill is a drag I really love the downhill as Peaty’s Steel City downhill race will bear testimony.
Q.3. Where are you dreaming of riding in 2021?
Bike Park Wales to regain my downhill mojo, Glenn Tress for the craic, the Alps for the adrenalin rush and Sauze d’Oulx for pure nostalgia.
Q4. Have you ridden more or less this year?
Loads more – I’ve managed to get out at least every other day (sorry, but I am retired)
So my fitness has improved massively as it’s always 7kms uphill from home! I did 170kms in November.
Q.5. What would you like to see MTBing become in the next few years? How should it evolve?
Greater understanding between different user groups and an acceptance that we all have a right to enjoy the great outdoors. An awareness from conservation bodies that mountain bikers have very little affect on the natural world and that National Parks, for example, were created for the enjoyment of everyone. A similar right to roam for all users as applies in Scotland would be wonderful.
