Germany – Girls gather in Grossheubach

Nestling in a valley between the Spessat and Odenwald foothills, the usually quiet Bavarian town of Grossheubach, Germany has been transformed into a bustling hive of activity. Located approximately eighty kilometres from Frankfurt, Grossheubach is ready to host the opening round of the 2011 FIM Women’s Trial World Championship as thirty-two riders from eight different nations descend on the area. Situated only a few kilometres outside of the town centre the first five sections are within walking distance of the main paddock, and with easy access for spectators. From here the riders will then travel south towards the next six hazards, before making their way back towards the start area where sections twelve and thirteen are positioned. The two final hazards are positioned directly beside the paddock area and will surely become a key focus point as the Trial progresses. All fifteen of the natural challenges make use of the surrounding sandstone terrain and woodland areas. Recent rainfall followed by a dry spell has made for good riding conditions and high levels of grip, but should the rain reappear then the smooth rock faces that litter the Trial could make for a highly demanding course come tomorrow.