Relentless Suzuki rider Paul Edmondson faced his toughest test of the year so far at the WOR Events Tough One Extreme Enduro over the weekend. Set in the intimidating Nantmawr Quarry near Oswestry in Shropshire, the event has become something of a mecca for both riders and spectators who like their going tough.
Edmondson’s first outing on the Relentless Suzuki adorned bike was something of a surprise. He entered the Tough One on a bog-standard RM125, the only addition to the bike was a trials tyre at the rear and a bike lamp at the front.
Smart thinking from Edmondson, the RM125 is light and manageable across the testing terrain and the trials tyre policy was soon adopted by many of the Pro competitors.
An added twist to the start saw all Pro riders on the start line with a wheel out of their bikes. Most opted for the rear wheel and Edmondson lost a little time at the off as the brake caliper moved slightly, delaying the whole process.
Although way down the field at the start, the Expert class already had a head start on the Pro’s, Edmondson battled his way up to fourth by the end of the first lap, then moved to third and held position for virtually the whole of the 2 hour race, just dropping down to fourth on the final lap. Lack of adequate lighting played a part as darkness fell but Edmondson still maintained a terrific pace to take a well deserved fourth in the Pro class.
