THERE was plenty of excitement for riders and spectators in the ninth round of the Isle of Wight Motorcycle Club’s 2018 Trials Championship, held on Bembridge Down.

On a testing, but enjoyable challenge for the riders, there were plenty of highlights.

George Gosden completed the trial with the lowest total of the day — a miserly seven marks dropped on the ‘elite’ course.

James Stay cemented his lofty position in the expert class with another win, although he had to dig deep to beat Rory Stephens, who took a heavy tumble on lap three of the difficult seventh section.

Isle of Wight County Press:

James Stay, who performed well in the expert class.  Photo: Viki Taylor.

Meanwhile, the intermediate class was won by championship favourite Shaun Harris, who finished ten marks ahead of his nearest rival.

A tie-break decided the clubman class, with Phil Chase taking the honours over Paul Kent, who rode superbly.

There was another close contest in the novice class, with Scout Gregory gaining his third consecutive win — just holding on to finish two marks ahead of Rob Baker.

Nick Symes was the only twin shock rider in action, but despite his lack of competition, he posted a very competitive 16 marks.

Joe Taylor won the adult beginners, eight marks ahead of Gary Jones, while 2018 champion elect in the youth novice class, Alfie Haydon, won again, finishing with a good score of 47.

Isle of Wight County Press:

Shaun Harris in action in the ninth round of the Isle of Wight Motorcycle Club's 2018 Trials Championships. Photo: Viki Taylor

Josh Morris earned himself the maximum ten championship points on offer in the youth beginner class.

The club’s next meeting will be the Ted Phillips Cup, on Sunday.

Full results are available from the club website: www.iowmcc.co.uk