jackoo40

Agreed, rules do make the job almost impossible though, but that doesn't explain some of the decision's. I think in every sport what everyone wants is consistency. What training if any did the observers get? Surely FIM representative should be running examples and giving instruction to help the observers who are all well meaning and volunteers putting themselves in high pressure situations.

Grattarola v No Stop: did anyone else think Grattarola was the harshly given a 5 on the almost impossible section 8 on the first lap today? After levelling the massive rock climb he "stopped" near the end albeit he kept the bike "moving" whilst lining up the last step out.

I put some S3 tapes on my sons Rev 80, but didn't heat them and they look like Nora Batty's tights! apparently there is a youtube video you can watch that shows you how to do it (wish I'd known before I tried).

As an Over 40 riding the clubman route (normally the middle route in the North West/Yorkshire) I often don't drop that many, but, with dodgy knee's and my own business to run I can't risk throwing myself at big rocks etc, so yes for a lot of us perhaps its fear. I guess if asked I would happily ride on a no award basis, so others can pick awards and get the encouragement they need. Green routes and 50/50 have been a good development as well and these do give you a chance to push a little harder without having to risk the big stuff.

Don't go to a doctor, go to a decent physio and get a referral, the only way to really know what is wrong is to have an MRI scan which you can pay for or get your doctor to refer (after seeing the physio). I have torn by ACL twice riding "nationals" and currently have no ACL in one knee. Physio should also give you some good exercises for strengthening your knee and core which will help.