The ninety-ninth Scottish Six Days Trial (SSDT) is underway, with the competitors being treated to sunshine once the early morning mist had cleared from the loch to reveal the fresh snow that had fallen on the hills over night.
Sherco factory riders Albert Cabestany & Michael Brown share the lead after day 1 on 3 points each but with 5 days, 500 miles and 150 sections to go it will be a long week of sharp concentration.
Last year's winner Dougie Lampkin - Beta started the day well, his assault for a third win in a row began to fall apart after the lunch stop as he picked up an uncharacteristic five when his bike misfired just before a double step. This electrical problem was to manifest itself as the day wore on, with Lampkin's bike coming to a complete halt with the final two sections still to ride.
Aussie riders have all finished the first day with Kristie Mckinnon & Graeme Peace in 229 & 239 place with the S.A. contingent of Robbie White, Peter Arnold & Andrew Tarrant in the finishers list.
Graeme Peace said via a quick phone hookup that he has given up on taking the win but is now focusing on staying in the hunt & having an extra pint of tetleys each night to improve his focus.
More info www.ssdt.org