In Episode 9 of Season 6, Neil and Matt are joined in the studio by Junior CX talent, Oli Akers fresh from (yet) another win in the National Trophy. Oli talks about his season, and how things are taking shape at Garden Shed UK Ribble Verge CX. He talks about the balance of risk and reward, and how much he is anticipating the end of the season with a series of big-ticket races across Europe. They review the ice conditions that were experienced at Barnoldswick and how they responded to the challenge of racing in the cold and slidey conditions. They also review all of the action from Val di Sole (spoiler - there wasn't a great deal in the end), and debate the balance of risk and reward and the challenges facing organisers in the balance of designing courses that are pitched at the right level for a sport that inhernetly carries some risks. In the Laatste Ronde they look forward to the upcoming Kerstperiode and preview Gavere, Zolder, Diegem and Baal. And also mention Mol and Loenhout on the way. So much CX goodness in such a short space of time - listen up for all you need to know and what to look out for. Happy Kerstperiod everyone! -- To support the show pop over to https://www.buymeacoffee.com/crosscast - every little helps! Follow us on Insta and Facebook, and share to your networks! Neil is part of Grity Sustainable Sports Apparel, and Matt runs Full Speed Events.