xc loop at Aston Hills

Hi,
Did the xc loop yesterday at Aston Hills with a mate and we struggled massively with both the roots and the grip in places (mostly chalky corners). My local trails have roots, but not much, but even so I can usually glide over them ok, but yesterday was a nightmare and I came off twice in a matter of minutes, and my mate came off once as well.
Really knocked my confidence and found my back wheel skidding on nearly every root we came across. My Nobby nics seemed constantly full of this chalky mud and only shredded bits on the odd quick section.
Conditions were a bit damp but not too bad, and the DH lads seemed to be tearing up their sections.
I accept I may not be technically up to it but found it a real struggle to get round and in the end not enjoyable. Any tips or advice or should I just stick to my local, grippier trails!!
Cheers
Did the xc loop yesterday at Aston Hills with a mate and we struggled massively with both the roots and the grip in places (mostly chalky corners). My local trails have roots, but not much, but even so I can usually glide over them ok, but yesterday was a nightmare and I came off twice in a matter of minutes, and my mate came off once as well.
Really knocked my confidence and found my back wheel skidding on nearly every root we came across. My Nobby nics seemed constantly full of this chalky mud and only shredded bits on the odd quick section.
Conditions were a bit damp but not too bad, and the DH lads seemed to be tearing up their sections.
I accept I may not be technically up to it but found it a real struggle to get round and in the end not enjoyable. Any tips or advice or should I just stick to my local, grippier trails!!
Cheers

ride your bike like a kid whilst you still can
Transition Blindside = http://www.flickr.com/photos/traceychalk/5335403095/
Transition Blindside = http://www.flickr.com/photos/traceychalk/5335403095/
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My advice to you would be to watch some of the other riders. There are so many lines you can take at Aston so have a look at the other guys and see what there doing.
Also, get your tyres sorted, I couldn't offer any advice in that department because I ride the DH there, but I'm sure someone will know a suitable tyre for your need, you can always ask the other guys what they find works when you next go down.
As for technique, you've just gotta stay relaxed, if the back wheel slips, let it. It should find traction again and you'll be on your way (thats where the good tyres come in
You have to remember that the first part of the loop is the Red DH run, so its gonna be challenging, but it will bring you technique along not end as you learn to tackle each section.
In a few months, if your lucky, well have a nice long spell of sunshine and the trails will dry up so the roots shouldn't be such a problem, but until then its trail and error i'm afraid.
Cheers,
PS As for the DH lads tearing it up, thats because they are running dual ply tyres in a nice soft compound at sub 20psi (well thats how I get by anyhow) If you weren't climbing back up again I'd recommend you get some.
Imho the Xc loop could do with a bit off a change round on some spots just because soil erosion on some lines has made the roots a bit too exposed ! But now the Hill has a new club hopefully things like that will be adressed 8)
Still GOTA LOVE THE HILL
Trek EX9.0
Viper Carbon Lite
Transition Blindside = http://www.flickr.com/photos/traceychalk/5335403095/
But damp chalk is like ice, especially as you try using grip on it around a berm/corner etc.
Give it a few more weeks to dry out and it should be a lot better!
Trek Fuel EX8 '09
What steelo says makes sense though, as my friend was at the demo day. If it wasn't so worn down and still a bit slippery it would be a nice ride
Transition Blindside = http://www.flickr.com/photos/traceychalk/5335403095/
Trek EX9.0
Viper Carbon Lite
Shame, I'm hungry for some fresh singletrack.
IMHO - give it a go, but remember that the best trails are the ones you shouldn't have to pay for!
Trek Fuel EX8 '09
Where would you suggest starting from if I were driving there?