Wight Is Right!

The first 2002 Salomon one-day X-Adventure event took place on the Isle of Wight at the weekend and was reckoned to be a smash hit.

Some 23 teams competed over an eight-hour course set by mountain guide and demonic course setter Nigel Shepherd - the new, shorter format is designed to make things easier for those travelling over longer distances and it seems to have worked with a decent smattering of novice teams taking part.

Conditions were windy, apparently making the canoeing section 'interesting' on the water, but compensated for by fast, dry chalky downhills on the mountain bikes. Winners were Team Kona, who finished in just over six and a half hours, over an hour clear of runners up, locals Team Offshore Crew closely followed by Kiwi Connection featuring the one-man mobile cabaret that is Keith Byrne.

There are three further Salomon One Day races in 2002 so if the idea fires you up and you fancy a go, there's still time:

• 2 June - North Wales (lots of mountain biking we're told)

• 29 June - Peak District

• 20 July - NE England

Entry for a three person team is £80 and there are also a limited number of places still available for the Salomon 36 Hour X-Adventure event in Scotland on 7/8 September. For an application pack call Sheila Standen on 01256 479555.

For more information see www.salomonsports.com or call 0800 389 4350. Thanks to Salomon for the pix.