Downieville Classic 2006
Intro
Great race results for all the wrong reasons.
Pre-Race Problems Galore
- The race filled in less than 3 days. My wife and I were on the wait list, so we had to be at the top, the morning of the race, just to find out if we could race.
- My fox 36 breaks the clamps just a week and a half before the race. They would not get me the fork back in time, so I had to borrow any fork that I could get. John came through with a beat down Psylo that barely worked. I swallowed my pride and took the fork.
- I needed DH tires, but tire selection in Downieville was almost non-existant. Note: bring a selection to Downieville.
- The courese was really sharp. Lots of people flatting in practice. I got 7.
Results
EXPERT MEN (35+), #40, 1:05:35, 27th place of 30. Class Winner, 0:44:12.
What was the problem?
I was hauling ass. I rode the top of the course solid and at a respecable pace. When the time came to climb, I gave it everthing and did better then I have in years. I was on track for a great finish an a great time.
3rd Devide. If you know this trail, then you know truely scary speed. I was half way down, hauling serious ass but riding smooth. I aired out a section and came down on a rock at top speed. Instantly, front and rear tire go flat.
"I'm out. Fuck!" Only one tube left, 'cause I got 7 flats in practice over the two days before the event. It takes me a minute or two to regain composure. I decide to fix the rear. While fixing the rear I realize that I really have to keep racing. DNF is a four letter word.
"I'll run the front rim!" I rush to finish the rear flat fix and get on the bike.
It takes a while to get used to the delayed steering of the front, especially with more decending to go. I keep at it. I pedal out first devide as hard as I could. I'm moving slower than with a front tire, but I'm acually moving at a good clip.
Spectators are going nuts all along the trail. Riders give condolences and props. I felt mean, I figured that I looked meaner.
Post race pics
