Round 3 of the Sunshine Series was a long awaited race at Kenilworth. With three races (one chainless) cancelled since the start of this year it was a weekend of great anticipation and excitement for all racers. We had been waiting to race this track for a very long time!

It is the most technical and steep track in the series and is generally thought of as the most difficult track to race. At just over 3 minutes for the elite men Kenilworth is the longest track so far in the series , consisting of tight technical corners, drops, kickers and slippery off camber sections, and is punishing both mentally and physically.

Not only was the racing track difficult but the shuttle track proved to be a challenge for the drivers with the first half of the day consiting of only half track practise runs as the shuttles couldn't make it all the way up the track.

Thankfully the sun was out and eventually dried up the road and we managed to get in a few full practice runs before qualifying started. Unfortunately, on my last practice run my front wheel slid out on a log drop and I went over the bars to land directly on my shoulder.

I was able to roll to the bottom of the trail and went to see the EMT's. They advised me they thought I had broken my shoulder and should head to the hospital. As most committed downhill riders I really wanted to race and finish the day. So I strapped my shoulder and was able to roll down for both my qualifying and race runs and take third place. I was very disappointed to not be able to put in a proper race run, but atleast I got to enjoy the track.

Then it was off to the hospital so some good news, I have a midly separated AC joint and some blood build up in my shoulder joint. Should be a few weeks in healing and then I will be back on the bike training for the final Sunshine Series round at Toowoomba in August.

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Hayley Kellner