Flies, flies and more flies...I realise now why they call it "Tropical Strength". It's because it attracts every fly from the tropics to your face.

That said, it was the only thing that put a dent in what was a fantastic weekend's racing. 177 riders turned up to compete in round 4 of the Victorian State Series, and they were treated to a great track, great weather and some great racing that produced a few upsets and minimal injuries.

Who says that Sam Hocken is unbeatable? Lincoln Verass proved again that he has the right stuff and repeated his win of last season at the same track, pipping Sam by a narrow margin. Michael Kearton made up the the other podium position, with Alex and Matt Swann rounding out the top 5.

Dave Habicht pulled one out and pushed Ben Barratt into second place - again proving no one is unbeatable in this series

And as if to show that none of the categories are exempt, Ryan Humphris also showed great form to take out the Under 17's. This class is producing some great racing with tight results every round. Watch out for some of these kids in the future.

What can we say about James Carter? Another win in the Under 15 class...is it going to be a clean sweep? Or can someone step up and give him a run for his money?

Steve Munyard smoked the Masters, proving that class and guts are ageless! Ian Petrie remains series leader though after a solid second place.

Full results will be up soon for this round, and the series standings will also be posted as soon as possible.

So, a big hand to the guys from Beechworth Chain Gang who did a great job of organising the event. Its a small club and they did wonders with the little they had. The sport relies on volunteers guys, so lend a hand wherever you can and make their life a bit easier

After a few comments from some riders, there will be a few alterations to the way series points are awarded:

Those classes that have qualifying runs will be adjusted so that riders who fail to qualify also receive some points. This will not substantially alter the overall standings but will at least give these riders something to show for their efforts. It's a great series, made so by the number of riders we get at every round. We want to encourage those riders to keep coming back, have fun and improving. We see the points system (which is based on the National Series model) as being slightly biased against that aim, and so want to make "tweaks" to ensure everyone gets something to show for all the blood, sweat and tears (to say nothing of the cost!) they invest in this great sport.

We will be putting up the points system for everyone to see very soon. Please feel free to comment if you feel the need. This is your series.

Also, dont forget that the standings are there now (to be updated after the last round of course), and if you have any queries please let us know so we can correct errors. They are your points, you deserve to have them!

We have had over 400 riders participate in all rounds so far this season, and keeping track of all these is no mean feat! (Especially when riders change categories, and people mispell names). Check your results against the points system and let us know if we have made any errors. They WILL be checked and corrected if necessary. If you had a DNS or DNF and you want it noted - tell us! Email only though, because telephone messages get lost!

For More Pics go to the State Series Website or MtbPicsOnline

For Results go to the State Series Website