Registration Open for Alpine Epic 4-day stage race in New Zealand

Entries are now open for the 2010 Alpine Epic multi-stage four-day mountain bike race to be held from Mt Somers to Lake Tekapo on February 24-27, 2010.

Limited at 100 teams for 2010, the event will see two-man teams pit their skills and endurance against rivals over 243km of untamed terrain through high-country stations and alpine passes from South Canterbury and into the Mackenzie Basin.

Last year's winners Marcus Roy and Kashi Leuchs

At the inaugural event last year Team RoadCraft’s Marcus Roy, of Invercargill, and Kashi Leuchs, of Dunedin, won four out of the five stages in a total time of 13hrs27min47sec.

“The isolation is the unique factor in this race. You have this feeling of remoteness with just a couple of sheep tracks as guidance and knowing full well that the only people to venture up here are the musterers and us,” Leuchs said after the race in 2009.

The first event of its kind in New Zealand, the Alpine Epic combines raw adventure mountain biking with streamlined logistics. Each night a large marquee is set up to feed the riders and a presentation is held over dinner to acknowledge top-placed riders and share memorable moments from the day. Breakfast is also catered for and riders camp out each night in a tent village.

Described as the toughest mountain bike race in New Zealand the event attracts riders from throughout the world – in 2009 teams from the UK, Czech Republic, Switzerland and America vied for the title.

Alpine Epic event director Nick Ross said it was the feedback from the inaugural event that made the 18 months of planning worthwhile for his team.

"Riders really seemed to understand what we were trying to do in creating a laid-back atmosphere set in the spectacular South Island high country," he said.

The Alpine Epic is a rugged test of endurance

"We are pretty excited about 2010, we are planning on continuing where we left off in 2009, with some awesome remote campsites, challenging and scenic riding, while giving people the chance to hang out and meet riders from all over the country and world."

Mr Ross also noted that there would be a few "tweaks to the course", including a completely new last stage which will take in the rolling country above Lake Pukaki.

"We are also working on a few other surprises to keep things entertaining," he said.

Visit www.alpineepic.co.nz for more information.

Race entry is $895 per person or $1,890 for a team of two. Entry includes, breakfasts and dinners including desserts; 90L race gear bag, course notes, prize giving banquet, sports drink on course, aid stations, medical support, camping and transport of gear each day. Other items are still being discussed with sponsors so this is the bare minimum.

Categories are for two-person teams only and include Men, Women, Open Mixed, and Age Groups.

Stages:

Stage 1, Mt. Somers to Rangitata River - 45 km - 1,500 meters elevation gain

Stage 2, Rangitata River to Rangitata Gorge - 17km - 500 meters elevation gain

Stage 3, Rangitata Gorge to Ashwick Flat - 88km - 2,300 meters elevation gain

Stage 4, Ashwick Flat to MacKenzie Basin - 72km - 1,450 meters elevation gain

Stage 5, MacKenzie Basin to Tekapo - 49km - 750 meters elevation gain

Check out the MTBracenews Nationwide Mountain Bike Race Calendar - Newly updated with Laramie Enduro 2010

Click here for the direct link to our national race calendar and the 2010 date for the Laramie Enduro and hundreds of other races around the country.



You can also check out our coverage of the 2009 Laramie Enduro won by 24-Hour National Champion Eszter Horanyi and Barkley Robinson. You won't find it anywhere else but MTBracenews.com!

US Cup Announces New Triple Crown Event/ One of America's Best U-23 Racers Heads For the Dirt as the Other Hits the Road

The folks who brought you the US Cup in 2009 have announced a new three race series for the '10 season. The Triple Crown All Mountain Series incorporates cross country, super-D, and short track disciplines in a three-race series spanning the entire United States.

Sam Schultz descends the "Pro Only" downhill in Fontana

The 2010 Triple Crown All Mountain Series includes:

Bonelli Park - San Dimas, California March 13-14
Chalk Creek Stampede - Nathrop, Colorado May 15-16
Massanutten Hoo-Ha - Massanutten Resort, Virginia June 19-20

"We wanted to take into consideration all major UCI events and dates before we released the Triple Crown schedule. After reviewing the Pro XCT calendar which was released on USA Cycling’s website two weeks ago, we felt we have made the public wait long enough for this announcement, comments US Cup Chairman Scott Tedro. “The US Cup has also, as a show of support for the pro riders that are chasing Olympic birth, tentatively agreed to do our part by hosting a UCI category 1 inscripted Pro XCT event at Fontana on March 27-28th, and feel good that we have established this series with minimal impact and overlap of existing events” adds Tedro. “The whole concept of the Triple Crown event is in conjunction with our partner promoters, incorporate 3 top tier venues and offer Pro riders a substantial amount of prize money over $35,000 in cash payouts, not just the top 3 pro riders, but to the top 10, while still making it logistically possible to incorporate it with their existing race schedule”.

“We couldn’t be more excited to work with the great folks at the mountain states cup and Massanutten venues. In our opinion they are some of the top promoters in the country and already have established themselves with the racers and cycling community”, adds Ty Kady US Cup marketing director. “Chris Conroy, Keith and Sarah at MSC have been very receptive of our concept, and of course George Willetts of Massanutten has been running the Hoo-Ha for the last 20+ years and is all over the idea.”

Overhead shots of majestic Massnautten Resort in Virginia

“The Triple Crown All Mountain series will test the rider’s ability in multiple disciplines to declare the Triple Crown All Mountain winner. We have decided to make this series more appealing to the riders, sponsors and media by incorporating Cross Country, Super D and Short Track into the series concept”, continues Kady. “A rider’s best 2 of 3 events will be calculated to crown a winner at each race and ultimately the overall series Champion.”

We are also going to be paying 10 deep in each discipline, plus offer US Cup bonus bucks to the top 10 male and female finishers at each individual event given certain field numbers are met. Then as an added bonus any rider male or female that can sweep all three rounds of the Triple Crown will put an extra $2K in their pocket. This could be a huge pay day for the riders!

“This couldn’t be possible without all the US Cup supporters. Companies like H2O Overdrive, Specialized, Kenda, KMC Chains, GU, John Wayne Cancer foundation and others have all really stepped up their support of US Cup events for 2010”, adds Ty Kady.

In addition the US Cup will continue with its network of Kenda Cup’s, that act as local and regional qualifiers. The Kenda Cup’s feature over 15 locations across the US, from Ashland Oregon to French Lick Indiana. The US Cup Invitational shootout will be on September 11-12, The US Cup will also manage a high level west coast based series that incorporates the Triple Crown opener, Pro XCT race and other California favorite venues.
___________________________________________________________________________________

U-23 Mountain Bike National Champion Amy Dombroski recently announced she has signed a contract to race on the Luna Women's MTB Race Team in 2010. As reported on MTBR.com, Dombroski has been one of this season's most successful racers after having won National titles in mountain biking, cyclocross, and road cycling.

The petite rider, who lives in Boulder, Colorado, has signed with the most successful mountain bike racing team in the United States. The Luna team is stacked with the biggest names in U.S. mountain bike racing including Georgia Gould, Katerina Nash, and Catharine Pendrel,

It's reported that Dombroski will be focusing on National level cross country events, a handful of world caliber, and a full cyclocross schedule. She may hit some local mountain bike classics like the Iceman Cometh and Breck-Epic stage race.

Robbie Squire has a great future in cycling

At the same time it seems mountain biking may be losing one of it's most promising prospects as US National Team rider and the top American finisher at U-23 World Championships Robbie Squire recently announced he will be racing with the Garmin U-23 Road Team in 2010.

Squire competed in a few road races in 2009 while in Europe with the U-23 mountain bike team and has been recruited by the highly successful Garmin squad for the upcoming season. It is unclear if Squire will compete on the dirt in 2010.

At just 19 years of age, Squire has made a larger impact on the national mountain bike scene than anyone his age has done for years. After winning the Junior National Champion title in 2008, Robbie raced with the U-23 national team in 2009 where he had great success by taking second at the National Championships and had multiple top-20 finishes on the Pro XC Tour.

Squire was a contributer to MTBracenews throughout his fantastic 2009 season and you can read his weekly "Robbie Reports" here.

Product Review: Kid Tested, Mother Approved - Slime Pro

Written by: Brian Hester

Slime products have been preventing flats on bicycles, motorcycles, cars, trucks, trailers, and wheel burros for just over 20 years now. Competitors have come and gone but Slime remains the industry leader for one simple reason. The green stuff works.



Missing from Slime’s lineup, however, was a tubeless bicycle tire sealant. Enter Slime Pro Tubeless Sealant.After extensively testing the competition Slime came up with a formula that addressed user’s complaints. It’s more effective, faster sealing, and weighs less than the other top brands. Slime Pro also contains their top secret rust and corrosion package to protect your expensive wheels and it’s made without ammonia so it’s less damaging to your tires and less toxic than other brands.

A 16-ounce bottle costs around 20 bucks. That’s enough to seal 8 mountain bike tires, about half what you get from a bottle of Stan’s for only a few bucks less. So at nearly twice the price why would you buy Slime? Easy, it works better and lasts longer.

My first experience with Slime Pro was a few months back. The perpetually bald rear tire on my mountain bike sprung a leak. I had sealant from one of Slime’s competitors in the tire but it just wouldn’t seal. After removing the presta valve cap I squirted in about an ounce of Slime pro and pumped up the tire. It sealed instantly even though I used half the recommended amount. Hundreds of miles later and a half dozen goat heads, the Slime is still working perfectly.

We also ran Slime Pro in a cycle-cross bike for a full season of CX racing. The courses in Utah feature an endless supply of goat head thorns and a flat tire usually means the end of your race. Our Slime Pro equipped bike went the entire season without incident despite routinely having multiple thorns in both tires. Slime Pro seals so quickly there was never any need to put more air in the tires so our tester finished every race ‘off the rims’.

While Slime Pro may initially cost more, the long-term value and that pina colada smell makes it worth every penny. We plan to use Slime Pro for the 2010 XC season so check back next year for updates.

Check Out the MTBracenews Nationwide Mountain Bike Race Calendar

We are constantly updating our race calendar with 2010 dates. Browse through hundreds of mountain bike races from across the country and find the race you have been looking for. We have everything including XC, Super-D, Ultra-Endurance, and Mountain Bike Stage Races. Do something new this year! Pick a new race mountain bike race to add to your 2010 schedule.

We have just updated with these excellent events:
Trans-Sylvania Mountain Bike Epic - 7-Day Mountain Bike Stage Race in Pennsylvania
Ouachita Challenge - 60 mile Ultra-Endurance Race in the Arkansas Back Country
Shenandoah 100 - Part of the NUE series and an ultra-endurance classic in Virginia

Check out these and hundreds of other races now on the MTBracenews Nationwide Mountain Bike Race Calendar

Utah Cyclocross Series #11: Ogden, Utah

The true “cyclocross weather” many Utahns had been waiting for finally struck. As snow fell Saturday morning riders bundled up for the coldest day racing of this year’s Utah cyclocross season.

The slick conditions claimed many riders

With series promoter Matt Ohran out-of-town for the final race the course for the final race of the season was set by his Monavie-Cannondale.com teammates Alex Grant and Bart Gillespie. Despite including a healthy dose of flats and pavement the weather conditions coupled with a loose, rocky section made this race one for the mountain biking crowd.

The women’s event saw the return of Kathy Sherwin (Velo Bella) to the racing season after a season filled with personal tragedy. Sherwin would be challenged by Sarah Kaufmann (Roaring Mouse) and Erika Powers (Revolution/Peak Fasteners) who would be looking to cement her second consecutive Utah Cyclocross series championship.

At the start the snow was falling gently at Fort Buenaventura. Kaufmann, racing in shorts, was’nt chilled by the snowy conditions as she quickly squirted off the front of the pack opening up an early lead.

Erika Powers took up the chase in second position followed by Chantel Olsen (PCIM), Jennie Wade (Church of the Big Ring), Jen Hanks (Revolution/ Peak Fasteners), and Sherwin, who was off to a slow start.

Kathy Sherwin makes her way toward the front

The conditions continued to worsen throughout the race with more snow falling making the course more and more slippery. Sherwin seemed to be struggling the most on the opening lap, after multiple crashes, she remained in fourth position with Kaufmann pulling away.

Sherwin’s willingness to push the pace quickly started to pay off as she became more comfortable with the course the Velo Bella rider began making her way through the field.

Sherwin started by overtaking Olsen followed shortly thereafter by Powers but Kaufmann wouldn’t go down so easily. A talented professional mountain biker, Kaufmann had been out front the entire event using her finely-tuned bike handling skills to amass a substantial lead.

Sarah Kaufmann had another strong cyclocross race

Kaufmann did her best to push the pace up front knowing that Sherwin was looming behind. Still leading at the beginning of the last lap Kaufmann gave everything to hold off the charging Velo Bella rider.

Sherwin was not going to be satisfied with anything less than a win as she powered up to and past the leader. Sherwin led into the final set of barriers, which set her up for a clear run for the finish line.

Kaufmann crossed the line just seconds later finishing off the closest women’s race of the Utah cross season. Erika Powers took the third spot and her second Utah series championship. Olsen crossed the line in fourth with a big gap over fifth-placed Stephanie Skoryenko (University of Utah).

The men started with their usual fury as Gillespie and Grant occupied the lead group joined by Jason Sager (Jamis), Eric Rasmussen (Specialized), and Ali Goulet (Chuch of the Big Ring).

Goulet, who leads the US Gran Prix of Cross series, wasted no time mixing things up at the front. While Goulet focuses on cyclocross, he is an accomplished mountain bike racer and it showed by flawlessly negotiating his way around the snow-packed course. Goulet consistently put pressure on the field with his fast pace and smooth riding through the technical sections.

Ali Goulet was not afraid of the snowy conditions

Gillespie stayed close in the first half of the race but Goulet gapped him around the halfway mark and never looked back.

While Gillespie had a firm grasp on second Jason Sager and Grant challenged each other for the third spot. Sager, who was racing a cross bike for the first time this season - he usually races a converted mountain bike, rode most of the race in third before fading late in the race. Having won the singlespeed race earlier that day, Sager began to run out of energy as the laps wound down. Finally, a crash on the final lap let Grant take the position.

Jason Sager runs the barriers

In the end Goulet crossed the line first. Followed by Gillespie, Grant, and Sager. Reed Wycoff (Contender), also a talented bike handler, took the final podium spot in fifth.

Bryan Gillespie rides one of the technical sections of Saturday's course

Results

1, Kathy Sherwin
2, Sarah Kaufmann
3, Erika Powers
4, Chantel Olsen
5, Stephanie Skoryenko
6, Jen Hanks
7, Heather Edwards
8, Jennie Wade
9, Kelsi Bingham
10, Christy Clay
11, Jessice Morris
12, Laura Patten

Men

1, Ali Goulet
2, Bart Gillespie
3, Alex Grant
4, Jason Sager
5, Reed Wycoff

Photos from Utah Cyclocross #11: Fort Buenaventura -- Ogden, Utah

Click Here to view our entire photo gallery from today's slippery final event on the Utah Cyclocross series

2010 US Cup/ SoCal State XC and Super-D schedule

Team Big Bear released the 2010 US Cup/ SoCal XC and Super-D schedule. Once again the Socal series includes two exciting stops at Big Bear and three races on the Pro XCT series presented by US Cup.

Adam Craig races in Fontana, March 2008

Check out this series and hundreds of other races on the MTBracenews nationwide mountain bike race calendar.Get easy access to the best races around the country. New races are being added everyday. MTBracenews has the most complete nationwide mountain bike race calendar available anywhere.

February 28-- Sagebrush Safari Cross-country
East County San Diego

March 13-14-- US Cup / Pro XCT Cross-country / Super D
Bonelli Park, San Dimas Short Track

March 27-28-- US Cup / Pro XCT Cross-country / Super D
Fontana City National Short Track

April 10-11-- Santa Ynez Valley Classic Cross-country / Super D
Los Olivos

May 2 -- Big Bear Shoot Out 1 Cross-country
Big Bear Lake

May 16-- US Cup / Pro XCT Cross-country
Big Bear National
Downtown Big Bear

June 6-- Santa Barbara Bike Festival Cross-country / Super D
Elings Park, Santa Barbara

June 20-- Big Bear Shoot Out 2 Cross-country / Super D
Series Final

What do you do with your off-season? Find out how the fastest women in the U.S. spend their winter months. Presented by Yeti Beti

Daylight savings is noticeably gone and so is consistently good weather. More often than not, Mother Nature can practically scream at us to stop riding our bikes. Within 24 hours the weather can fluctuate from a sunny warm day to blizzard-like conditions. Regardless of if you live in the Rocky Mountains or the Great White North of Minnesota, we have begun cycling’s off-season. In five short weeks we will ring in yet another new year. But before that, we all have to tackle a busy holiday schedule where overindulging, travel, and lack of daylight can make training harder.

With seemingly fewer days of good weather, what are some of the top female cyclists doing to stay on top of their game? Do they log long arduous hours of indoor cycling? How much gym time do they get? I was looking for answers to help spice up the typical, mundane winter training.

I was pleasantly surprised to learn that indoor riding is generally not a top priority for these women. Base miles are ridden outside regardless of the weather. Specialized rider Jenna Zander lives and rides in Minnesota all year. With temperatures often reaching far below zero, not including wind chill, I was impressed to find she prefers cycling outside during the shortest days of the year. “I find that it’s better mentally if you can get outside and ride or do another fitness activity”, explains Zander. Her favorite rides take her over the abundance of frozen lakes and rivers scattered across the state. When there is too much snow to ride, she gets out the cross-country skis or snowshoes and heads out to the woods. You can generally find a good trail system anywhere in Minnesota for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. With the snow flying a solid six months of the year, you have ample time to perfect your technique and jump into several ski races offered through out the state (www.skinnyski.com).

Jenna Zander braves the Minnesota cold

Here in Colorado, it’s a bit tougher to find frozen water to ride across. With an abundance of sunshine and most days above freezing, riding outside isn’t quite as daunting for the local women. Subaru/ Gary Fischer’s Heather Irmiger and Giant’s rider Kelli Emmett view the off-season as an opportunity to capitalize on Colorado’s other outdoor adventures. Both indulge in another two-wheeled sport of off road motorcycle riding. With hundreds of miles of mountainous singletrack and jeep roads to explore, bike handling at high speed with a heavier bike makes maneuvering a 20-pound carbon rig effortless. Add in the exploding colors of Aspen trees and snowcapped peaks, you just discovered heaven in your back yard.

Kelli Emmett spends her off-season hitting the trails on a different kind of bike

Colorado and Utah have amazing backcountry skiing access. Once the snow pack has stabilized, earning your turns in the backcountry can offer some of the most rewarding winter days. Knee-deep face shots are the norm after a day full of uphill skinning. This is not only a great aerobic workout at high altitude, but the thigh burning snow on the way down is great for your cycling quads.

Heather Irmiger enjoying some back country skiing

SyRae Weikle, Tough Girl’s 40-year-old US XC National Champion, gets her quads burning through ice hockey. It is a way for her to maintain her cycling fitness with total body anaerobic bursts. Although it keeps her off her bike for much of the winter, skating compliments her cycling with the 2-fer-1 combination of aerobic conditioning and strength. You’d never know she didn’t ride much of the winter when she’s winning races in May.

This "Tough Girl" likes to dish out body checks when off the bike

When it comes to specific strength training, there are good options for both inside and outside of the gym. Strength and core are important and do not need to be in the form of dumbbells. Emmett maintains her core with Pilates and running the Incline once a week. A former railroad bed built in 1907, the Incline is a vertical mile-long stair climb to a lofty 8600 feet near the base of Pike’s Peak. Many of Colorado Springs’ cyclists hit the Incline weekly and loop back around on the Barr trail. It’s a grunt of a climb but well worth the view from the top of surrounding Pike’s Peak and Garden of the Gods.

2009 US National XC and Marathon National Champion Heather Irmiger hits the gym with a focused and purposeful 30 minute session. With a routine of push-ups, pull-ups, and crunches, she gets all she needs with simple, yet effective exercises. She maintains leg strength with the usual squats, lunges, and leg press and is careful not to ignore the hamstrings. It’s all about balance, power, and strength and it clearly paid off in 2009.

Get out and enjoy NOT riding your bike this winter. Even the top women take time away from their bikes and enjoy their winter environments. Snow doesn’t have to be a four-letter word and can actually help make for a better cycling season.

Thanks to Kelli Emmett (Giant), Heather Irmiger (Subaru/Gary Fisher), SyRae Weikle (Tough Girls), and Jenna Zander (Specialized) for their contributions to the article.

Rider Chat with Alex Grant

Monavie-Cannondale.com rider Alex Grant has been a top-flight rider on the U.S. cross country circuit. For years he has shown flashes of brilliance in the cross country arena. In 2009, Grant made the transition to ultra-endurance racing and enjoyed a sesaon most could only dream of. He finished tenth at the Mohican 100, fourth at the Leadville 100, behind Lance Armstrong, and polished it off with a courageous second place finish at La Ruta De Los Conquistadors.

We wanted to learn more about Grant's tremendous ride in the Costa Rican jungle and his plans for the future.

Alex Grant descends during La Ruta

MTBracenews.com- Give a short introduction of yourself including some background on your racing career.

Alex Grant- I live in Utah but am originally a Vermonter- I grew up in Richmond, a
small town up north near Burlington. I used to play a lot of pond
hockey, street hockey, ski and snowboard.

I started mountain biking when I was 15 just as a way to explore
Vermont's extensive network of snow machine trails. I did some racing at
Catamount Family Center which hosts the largest and longest running
weekly mountain bike race series in the country. I raced pretty much
every summer until I was 19 when I took a break to do some traveling and
snowboard a lot. I had moved out to Salt Lake City the year before
(1998) to attend the University of Utah and got hooked on the
snowboarding right away.

After college and a few years snow bumming I got back into racing and
have been doing more and more since about 2005. I also work in the bike
industry as a sales rep and it's nice to be able to mix work with what I
love to do.

MTBracenews.com- What were your expectations heading into this year’s La Ruta. Were
you expecting a podium finish with this being your first La Ruta?

Alex Grant- The only expectations coming in to La Ruta this year were of the
difficulty of the race! I was anticipating a brutal event that would
come down to attrition and suffering. I had heard about the mud, climbs,
railroad tracks etc. I was expecting an adventure and thought that if I
could put together a decent race I would be able to get a top 10. Top 5
was a best case type of scenario- but wasn't an expectation, just an
outside shot...

I certainly wasn't expecting 2nd!

Just one of the treacherous aspects of La Ruta

MTBracenews.com- What was the hardest part of La Ruta?

Alex Grant- Plenty to choose from here... I would have to say the attrition. Getting
up at 3:30 a.m. and doing a 6 hour race is hard but manageable for a one
day event. The fact that you need to get up at 4:00 a.m. for the next
three days to do another 4-5 hours a day is so tough! You are definitely
making some withdrawals from the sleep bank. And its not like you are
just out there cruising at an endurance pace- you need to be on it and
focused the whole time. Ready to suffer. It takes a mental toll.

MTBracenews.com- You raced with a hydration pack and multiple water bottles while some
of your teammates just raced with very few bottles and no pack. Why?

Alex Grant- Just personal preference I guess. Some people hate them, I don't mind
wearing them. For this race I chose the hydration pack for a few reasons.

First, I tend to need to drink a lot in hot/humid conditions. After
doing BC Bike Race I learned that during a multi day race you can't let
yourself get too dehydrated (even though I still did on Day 1). I put
Carbo Rocket in my bladder too. Some people don't need to drink as much;
the more I race with Tinker the more I become convinced he is a camel!

Also with a completely unknown course and spotty info on the feedzones,
I didn't want to chance it. Even on Day 1 I ran out- we just misjudged
the distance from the last feed zone to the finish.

It's really not that much heavier. I have this Black Diamond pack that's
made out of parachute material and a 50 oz bladder. I like to be able to
bring 2 tubes, a mini pump, spare suspension link bolts, a derailleur
hanger, etc. on me for these kind of things. I mean I flew all the way
to Costa Rica, I want to be able double flat, have a CO2 malfunction,
bend a hanger in the middle of the jungle and still ride to the finish.
The pack takes some pressure off the jersey pockets.

It's nice to be able to drink on the downhill too, and you should have
seen the mud/cow manure on my water bottle at times- undrinkable.

Cows on course making a hydration pack a good idea

MTBracenews.com- How much hiking did you do the first stage and how did that affect you?

Alex Grant- Wow... it's hard to say but the whole Carara National Park section was
probably two or three hours. That involved a lot of hiking interspersed
with a little riding, cleaning your bike in streams and trying to get
out of knee deep quicksand!

I could have been better prepared for the hiking for sure. My back got
tired from carrying my mud laden bike up and downhills and I know my
legs got torched from it. I was very sore, especially two days later.
Next year I am going to mix some hiking into my preparation for sure.

MTBracenews.com- How much of a factor was team racing during the event? With you
having Sonntag and Bishop and Prado riding with Ben Bostrom how did that
impact the race outcome?

Alex Grant- The nature of the course at La Ruta doesn't really lend itself to team
riding because there is a very selective climb right at the start of
each stage (with the exception of Day 4). That tends to shatter the
group and on Day 1 and 2 even Ben Bostrom and Manny Prado were split up
from the first climb. Our team was spread out too but somehow over the
course of the race would come back together and then really be able to
take advantage of team work. It would be ideal to stay together over the
first hills and really take advantage of numbers. We did that on Day 4
and had Jeremiah off the front for the stage win until he flatted, then
Ben was in line for it and dropped a chain! Team work will be part of
the strategy next year for sure. It's nice to have some company out
there on these long races too. Good for the morale.

The pack starts one of the steep opening climbs

.MTBracenews.com- You finished on the podium at the Leadville 100, Park City Point to
Point, and La Ruta. Each race involved significant contributions from a
team of riders not just one individual. Where do you see the team-racing
phenomenon in endurance mountain bike events going from here?

Alex Grant- It's always nice to have teammates out there to race with. Though
mountain biking will never be as tactical as road racing, some of these
longer events do involve long sections where team riding comes into
play. We are fortunate enough to have a great team with the depth of
talent to ride as a team at these races. On any given day we have a
number of guys who can ride at the front. A lot of mountain bike racers
are just privateers and soloists but as endurance racing continues to
grow and gain sponsorship and exposure I think we will see some more
teams come forward to focus on these types of events.

MTBracenews.com- You did a wide array of races in 2009, everything from Canada to
Costa Rica. Which was your favorite and why?


Alex Grant- Wow, apples and oranges. BC Bike Race was like a guided tour of the best
singletrack you can imagine every day with beautiful weather and
civilized waking hours... more like a vacation. La Ruta- so hard and so
intense. But also so rewarding.

I am going to have to say my favorite was the Park City Point to Point
because it was 75 miles of singletrack in our own back yard.

MTBracenews.com- What are your plans and goals for 2010?

Alex Grant- I'd just like to continue to improve in 2010. I am happy if I can
improve a little bit each year consistently. This year I made my biggest
jump so I just hope to be able to step it up a few more percent for 2010.

As for plans- this season just ended and I haven't thought too hard
about that yet but will soon- there are so many great events out there
to do.

MTBracenews.com- Name one race you have never done but would like to one day.

Alex Grant- Trans Andes. Probably not this year but I would love to do it at some point.

MTBracenews.com- Tell us something interesting about yourself that most people don’t know (Example: I love NASCAR. I can’t help it. I was raised that way.)

Alex Grant- I grew up in a log cabin on a dirt road heated only by a wood burning
stove and our antenna only picked up two TV channels.


Type rest of the post here

2010 Mountain States Cup Schedule Released

Colorado's premier mountain bike race series released it's 2010 schedule. Check it out here and on our nationwide mountain bike race calendar with thousands of other races across the country. Click here to view our national race calendar.

April 24-25 Rabbit Valley Rally Fruita CO. - T.T. and XC
May 15-16 Chalk Creek Stampede, Nathrop CO. - XC, STXC, 4X & Slalom
June 5- 6 Chili Challenge, Angel Fire N.M. - XC, 4X, SD, DH
June 26-27 Wild Flower Rush, Creted Butte CO. - XC, SD, 4X, DH
July 10- 11 Blast the Mass Snowmass CO. - XC, SD, (2) DH
August 7-8 Keystone Revival, Keystone CO. - XC, STXC, DH, SD
August 21-22 Full Tilt in Telluride. Telluride CO. XC, H.C., 4X, DH
September 4-6 - Winter Park Pursuit, Winter Park CO. XC,STXC, Slalom, DH, SD

Dates are subject to change

Utah Cyclocross #10: Draper Equestrian Center, Draper, Utah

As the 2009 Utah Cyclocross series begin to wind down the racing action continues to ramp up. Each week has provided exciting dynamics for the racers and spectators to enjoy. The penultimate of the 2009 season in the series was one of this year’s best.

Wren and Gillespie marked each other throughout the race

All the big names toed the start line for the elite men’s event including Bart Gillespie (Monavie-Cannondale.com), Ali Goulet (Church of the Big Ring), Eric Rasmussen (Specialized), and newcomer, professional road racer, Tyler Wren (Boo Bicycles).
Off the start Tanner Cottle (Specialized) led the group up the long opening paved climb before he was overtaken by the big guns Goulet, Wren, Gillespie, Rasmussen, and Reed Wycoff (Contender).
The second selection of the day came shortly after as Goulet, Wren, and Gillespie gapped the other leaders. Once off the front these three quickly opened an insurmountable gap.

The leaders weren’t content to simply sit on the front as attacks began almost immediately. Most of the animation was coming from the road racer Wren who pushed the pace on the climbs. On lap three a big acceleration from Wren gapped his compatriots but Gillespie marked him by the top of the pavement with Goulet in tow.

That was the beginning of the end for Goulet however as he was gapped again on the next climb. This time he was unable to bridge the gap.

Ali Goulet cranks through some singletrack

With two in the lead group each man took turns pushing the pace and putting in small accelerations to test each other’s fitness. The two leaders stayed together for the next five laps leaving everything to be decided on the final trip up the pavement climb.

Wren had been hammering the climb all day and it was clear Gillespie would have his hands full in the final sprint. As the leaders approached the finish line Wren was indeed ahead clearly giving it his all. Gillespie stayed close through the steepest part of the climb and once the road began to flatten out and the finish banner was in clear sight Gillespie burst from Wren’s wheel rocketing past the Boo Bicycles rider with an astounding turn of speed.

Bart Gillespie has won many races but this weekend’s will be one of the most memorable. The cagey veteran displayed the power and tactical prowess, which has helped make him the most successful bike racer in Utah history.

Wren crossed the line with a well-deserved second place. Goulet stayed strong for third place followed by the persistent Eric Rasmussen who rode by himself all day long. Connor O’Leary showed good late-season form taking fifth.

Connor O'Leary navigates an icy descent

The women’s event would see Erika Powers (Revolution/Peak Fasteners) fighting off challengers Jen Hanks (Revolution/Peak Fasteners), Sarah Kaufmann (Roaring Mouse), Stephanie Skoryenko (University of Utah), and Chantel Olsen (PCIM).

Erika Powers was off to the races for another win

Powers took the early lead wasting no time in gapping her competitors. Kaufmann, an endurance mountain bike specialist, started slower but limited the gap to Powers on the opening lap.

On the second of four laps for the women, Powers once again punched it on the paved climb and dislodged Kaufmann for good. Now Kaufmann started to feel the heat from Stephanie Skoryenko who was giving everything on the climb to close on the second placed rider.

Stephanie Skoryenko grinds out a short climb

Skoryenko spent the first two laps battling with Jen Hanks but Hanks couldn’t match her speed on the paved climb. Skoryenko would gain precious seconds on Kaufmann each ascent of the climb but Kaufmann’s smooth riding and power in the singletrack sections were too much for Skoryenko to match.

In the end it was Powers taking another dominant win over Sarah Kaufmann in second and Stephanie Skoryenko in third. Jen Hanks held on for fourth place followed by Chantel Olsen who rode a consistent race in fifth place.

Jennie Wade on her way to a good seventh place finish

Click Here to view our entire photo gallery from today's race

Tyler Wren and Bart Gillespie waged an epic battle in Draper,Utah

Sarah Kaufmann digs for speed on the run up

Results:

Elite Women

1, Erika Powers

2, Sarah Kaufmann

3, Stephanie Skoryenko

4, Jen Hanks

5, Chantel Olsen

6, Allison Vrem

7, Jennie Wade

8, Kelsi Bingham

Elite Men

1, Bart Gillespie

2, Tyler Wren

3, Ali Goulet

4, Eric Rasmussen

5, Connor O'Leary

Wells and Miller take wins at Jingle Cross Rock Day 2 presented by Carousel Volkswagen

Report by: Kenny Lefler in Iowa City, Iowa

Wow what a difference a day makes. The sun came out and with the warmth
came fans. The atmosphere at the Jinglecross could not have been better.

Most cyclocrosses that I have been to are great for the fans. Beer, food
and watching human suffering at it's best. This was no different and
more fun then anyone should have on a Saturday in November.

Once again it was the Todd Wells and Meridith Miller show. This time the race had a
huge run up and these riders made it look like it was not even there.
They both easily rode away from all the other contenders.

Race Note:
I have had the pleasure of talking to both winners and they both are great
people to be around.

Elite Men

1, Todd Wells (Specialized)
2, Tristan Schouten (Planet Bike)
3, Brian Matter (Gear Grinder)
4, Mark LaLonde (Planet bike)
5, Ryan Iddings (Lapierre)
6, Jake Wells (Mafie Racing)
7, Mitchell Hoke (Colorado College)
8, Alex Howes (Clif Bar)
9, Ned Overend (Specialized)
10, Jack Hinkens
11, James LaLonde
12, Scott McLaughlin
13, Ryan Knapp
14, Chris Hurst
15, Jesse Hurst
16, Kevin McConnell
17, Ben Popper
18, Shadd Smit
19, Joshua Johnson
20, Jeff Winkler
21, Michael Hemme
22, Matthew Allen
23, Adam Mills
24, Jacob Helmbrecht
25, David Quist
26, Teodoro Ramos
27, David Sachs
28, Logan VonBokel
29, William Street
30, Spencer Haugh

Elite Women

1, Meredith Miller (California Giant Berry)
2, Linda Sone (Planet Bike)
3, Kari Studley (Velo Bella)
4, Kristin Wentworth (Planet Bike)
5, Rebecca Much (Webcor)
6, Kaitlin Antonneau (Planet Bike)
7, Kris Walker (Kriegcycling.com)
8, Corey Coogan (Ridley)
9, Lisa Curry (Gallatin Alpine Sports)
10, Marne Smiley (Scott/Ollett Coaching)
11, Robin Williams (Iowa City Cycling Club)
12, Holly Klug (Courage Cycles)
13, Elizabeth Welliver (Velo Bella)
14, Megan Elliot
15, Patricia Kaufmann (Planet Bike)

USA Cycling Announces Pro XCT calendar for 2010

The US National series returns to Big Bear after a long hiatus and will visit a new event in Wisconsin

Geoff Kabush leads out the pack at the 2009 US Cup opener in Fontana, California (photo by: Shannon Boffeli)

2010 USA Cycling Pro Cross Country Mountain Bike Tour:

March 13: US Cup Bonelli Park - San Dimas, Calif.
March 27: US Cup Fontana – Fontana, Calif.
May 16: US Cup Big Bear – Big Bear, Calif.
June 5: Bump ‘N Grind – Birmingham, Ala.
June 26: Subaru Cup – Mt. Morris, Wis.
July 10: CTS International Classic – Colorado Springs, Colo.

USA Cycling announced today the return of the nation’s professional cross country mountain bike series designed to amplify athletes’ opportunities, increase exposure for mountain biking domestically and to maximize U.S. start spots on the sport’s highest stages. The USA Cycling Pro Mountain Bike Cross Country Tour (Pro XCT) presented by US Cup will consist of six UCI-sanctioned events throughout the United States, providing world-class athletes with a consistent stage on which to accumulate UCI ranking points and top prize purses.

The UCI points up for grabs at each Pro XCT event are crucial in helping the United States qualify the maximum number of mountain biking start spots for the 2012 Olympic Games in London, as well as start order at the UCI Mountain Bike World Championships.

“The Pro XCT not only creates opportunity and increases exposure for our athletes here at home but it also helps ensure U.S. athletes the maximum opportunity for success on the sport’s highest stage,” explained USA Cycling National Mountain Bike and Cyclo-cross Development Director Marc Gullickson. “The UCI points these events offer directly dictate the number of start spots the U.S. will receive in mountain biking events at the 2012 Olympic Games in London as well as improve start order at the Mountain Bike World Championships annually.”

In addition to providing a sequence of international-caliber events where elite cross country racers can earn UCI points, the USA Cycling Pro XCT seeks to spotlight top American races, raise the level of competitive racing in the U.S., and recognize the best cross country teams and athletes competing on U.S. soil. In order for individual riders or teams to earn points toward the overall Pro XCT titles, they must be registered as a UCI Trade Team or as a USA Cycling Mountain Bike Domestic Pro Team. The Pro XCT will provide leaders’ jerseys to the top male and female rider in the overall standings, leaders’ number plates and a guaranteed cash purse for each race.

Jenna Rinehart won the Subaru Cup in 2009 which will now be a part of the Pro XCT (photo by: John Senekirk)

Visiting four states in 2010, the Pro XCT will open with the US Cup Bonelli Park in San Dimas, California on March 13, a UCI category-two event that will serve as the unofficial kick-off to the 2010 mountain biking season. Next, the USA Cycling Pro XCT will move west on I-10 to Fontana, Calif. for the US Cup Fontana, the series’ first category-one event, on March 27. After a five-week break, the third stop will be the US Cup Big Bear set for May 16 in Big Bear, Calif. The series will then head to the deep south for the second of three category-one contests, the Bump ‘N Grind in Birmingham, Ala. on June 5. The Subaru Cup, slated for June 26 in Wautoma, Wis., will be the series’ fifth stop, and the number one pro rider on U.S. soil will be determined following the Pro XCT finale, the Carmichael Training Systems International Classic, in Colorado Springs, Colo. on July 10.

“Due to the ever-improving quality of events and focused management, the USA Cycling Pro XCT looks to be even stronger in its second season,” stated USA Cycling’s Mountain Bike and Cyclo-cross Events Director Kelli Lusk. “Many of the events have stepped up in category level offering an even more superior experience for riders and spectators alike. The strength of the selected events partnered with US Cup as the series’ management company should continue to help raise the quality of the sport’s premier domestic series.”

USA Cycling will partner with the US Cup Management Company who will be responsible for the implementation of the Pro XCT. US Cup will work to foster additional sponsorship and media partners to build the Pro XCT prize purses and help create the top-tier of mountain bike events in the country. US Cup will also act as the current presenting sponsor of the USA Cycling Pro XCT presented by US Cup.

A professional gravity-based tour, the USA Cycling Pro Mountain Bike Gravity Tour (Pro GRT), is also gearing up for its second season. The Pro GRT schedule is expected to be announced in coming weeks.

For more information about the USA Cycling Pro XCT presented by US Cup, its races, teams and more, visit www.usacycling.org/proxct or www.uscup.net.

Mello Johnny Classic: Austin, Texas: Results, Report and Photos to follow

Written by - Ian Fleming
Photos by - Chris Vandivere and Ian Fleming - Karmabiker Photography

Juan Pelota Ranch, home of Lance Armstrong, hosted the inaugural Mellow Johnny Classic this Sunday. Indeed Armstrong himself made one of his rare appearances on a mountain bike at the first year event. Along for the ride was one of the most talented fields outside a national championship level event including National Champions Heather Irmiger and Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski (Subaru/Gary Fisher), Dave Wiens (Topeak-Ergon), and Ironman hotshot Chris Lieto.

MJC host Lance Armstrong

Bright hopes for the first dry texas race of the fall were dashed as rain poured down in Dripping Springs, Texas, right outside of Austin. The excitement surrounding the first ever mountain bike race on Lance Armstrong's exclusive trails, was at least partly dampened by the deluge.However, as the grey dawn rose on Sunday there was a distinct feeling of impending sunshine. However, it was not to be for the dedicated Cat 2's and 3's who made the trek out to race in the mud. The signature texas sun wouldn't appear until later. Despite the ominous clouds the racing action in the Cat 2's and 3's was hot. Surprisingly large crowds turned out to see the Singlespeeders at 9 am, and from then on the crowds only grew.

One of the singlespeeders gets a taste of the slick conditions

As the morning wore on the weather hinted at lifting but did little towards actually improving. Around eleven pro's started to appear. All were asking the same question "How are the trails?". The report wasn't very heartening. The rocks were treacherously slick and the mud holes had been churned even more by all the racers in the morning. About then a ray of light literally fell on all the disconcerted Cat 1's as they pondered the bleak conditions. The return of the sun to the picture changed the whole outlook. By the time the roll call started, around 1:30, the course had improved visibly. Sections that had been soupy troughs turned into a concrete-hard clay ribbon. Up at the start line the racers lined up, impatient to tear up the fast drying trail.

Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski grinding out a climb

A more varied category is hard to imagine. Beside legends such as Dave Wiens and Will Black there were juniors, regional pros, and the occasional singlespeeder. Not to mention current national champion and all around nice guy Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski. Just before the start "the man" himself, Lance Armstrong, rolled up to the line. As he did the photographers, film crews, and spectators crowded close for a glimpse of one of the most famous cyclists of all time. Off went the gun and almost as if by magic the compact mass at the line was at the first corner. They were led by well know Texan Rick Wetherald closely followed by Bryan Fawley, JHK, and Lance. Close on their heels were the other 50 some riders ready to tackle a course that under normal circumstances is not easy.

The spectators ran from point to point to cheer their favorites as they bombed down rock gardens and pinballed up roots and ledges in real Texas style. It was apparent from the start that Lance, Bryan, and JHK were going to make a break immediately. Their momentum caused the pack to split into many pieces. However when the dust settled Jeremy was out front being chased by Lance and Bryan closely followed by a group including Jason Sager, Will Ross, Rick Wetherald, two of Texas's fastest junior Payson McElveen and Kevin Fish, as well as a host of others.

Armstrong follows Jason Sager through the rocks

Now comes the twist in the story. All over the course were slick little rocks just waiting for the eager racers, and down they went. Will Rader, Will Black, Will Ross, Payson McElveen and many others were forced to drop out due to everything from multiple flats to sheared brake hose and broken frames. By no means least was our famous host, Lance. While chasing down Jeremy he flatted and decided to call it a day. Casualties not with standing, the race continued as hard as ever. As the second lap turned into the third and final the gaps between riders became more established.

Bryan Fawley on the chase

JHK not only maintained but increased his lead with Bryan Fawley still in hot pursuit. Behind them Jason Sager had broke away from his following and looked as if he might reel Fawley in. After the pack had torn through the start/finish area, the crowd headed down to the final climb just to see if they could spot the winner. Sure enough Jeremy rounded out the third lap with a blistering time to finish in first. Fawley increased his lead on Sager for well deserved second. The real question now was who would round out the podium in fourth and fifth. That question was answered as Kevin Fish came tearing up the final climb to claim 4th place at only 17 years of age, followed closely by Matt Gordon.

Heather Irmiger was the fastest women of the day

Will Black - Texas Cycling Legend

Pro/Cat 1 Men

1, Jeremy Horgan-Kobelski (Subaru/Gary Fisher) 1.47.01
2, Bryan Fawley (Park Place Lexus) 1.53.55
3, Jason Sager (Jamis) 1.57.17
4, Kevin Fish (Bicycle Sport Shop) 1.59.01
5, Matt Gordon (Team Six) 2.00.02
6, Scott Henry (Hammerhead Bicycles)
7, Wiley Mosley (Specialized)
8, Stewart Stafford (Austin Flyers)
9, Brian Kuehl (Bicycle Sport Shop)
10, Jorge Munoz (Gold's Gym)
11, Len Zanni (Honey Stinger)
12, Tristan Uhl (Looking for a Team)
13, Keith Hargis (RBM/Matrix)
14, Robbie Robinette (Team Hotel Sna Jose)
15, David Wiens (Topeak Ergon)
DNF Lance Armstrong(Mellow Johnny's Bike Shop)
DNF Will Black (Colonel's Bicycles)

Pro/Cat 1 Women

1, Heather Irmiger (Subaru/Gary Fisher) 1.26.18
2, Alexandra Robinette (Team Hotel San Jose)
3, Leslie Reuter (Bicycle Sport Shop)
4, Melanie Etherton (Cycle Progression)
5, Claire McKenna (Team Hammerhead Racing)
6, Sara Krause (Krause Sport Performance)
7, Julia Jenkins (Bike Sport)
8, Luan Roberts (UH)
9, Megan Steward (Hill Country Bicycle)
10, Kathleen Karpinski (Austin Bikes)

Cat3 19-29 Women know how to party

Utah Cyclocross #9: Wheeler Farm, Salt Lake City, UT

Click here to view photos from Utah Cyclocross #9

Jen Hanks runs through the barriers with Heather Edwards behind

Just one day after the crowning the new Utah State Champions, Utah’s crossers were back at it again. This time on the more technical Wheeler Farm course.

Early in the day small patches of snow clung to the edges of the course and as the temperature rose during the women’s event the snow began to melt turning a dry track slippery and even more challenging.

Erika Powers (Revoluton/Peak Fasteners) took the lead off the start .Dayna Deuter (Church of the Big Ring) was determined to retake the top spot after just missing out on a State Championship yesterday. She jumped into the lead group with Powers as did Chantel Olsen (PCIM) who has been consistently challenging the leaders in this year’s Utah Cyclocross series.

Chantel Olsen and Dayna Deuter attack the barriers

The lead group was short-lived. Just before the end of the first lap Deuter had moved into the lead but crashed on a tight, slick, downhill corner. Erika cruised past and once out front, she never looked back. She quickly built a lead of 20 seconds.
Deuter recovered but not in time to catch a charging Erika Powers. She was left defending second place from Chantel Olsen who stuck close to the Church of the Big Ring rider.

Behind the lead trio Jen Hanks was once again making up for a slow start working her way past Laura Patten (Ski Utah), and Heather Edwards to put herself in the fourth spot.

Powers built on her lead finally crossing the line with a large lead. Deuter took her her second runner-up in two days as Olsen held on for third just in front of Jen Hanks who needed a last lap surge to detach Heather Edwards.

Alex Grant leads Ali Goulet and Bart Gillespie through the singletrack

By the time the men’s race started most of the muddy spots had dried leaving the course fast and tacky. And once again the State Champion, this time Ali Goulet (Church of the Big Ring), was looking to prove himself with a repeat win.

At first it seemed Goulet would have a much harder time as both Bart Gilllespie and Alex Grant, both of team Monavie-Cannondale.com accompanied him in the lead group.

Goulet had his hands full in the opening laps as Gillespie and Grant took turns attacking him unable to drop the State Champion and after three laps Goulet had had enough.

Ali Goulet on his way to another win

Goulet launched a wicked attack sending him clear of the Monavie duo who were unable to reel the leader back. From that point on it was a solo race with Goulet, Grant, Gillespie, and Eric Rasmussen (Specialized) fighting the wind and course on their own.
Goulet kept pouring it on at the front and in impressive fashion turned in his fastest lap time on the penultimate lap. He finally crossed the line well ahead of his challengers taking his second win of the weekend. Grant finished second with Gillespie behind and Mitchell Petersen (Monavie-Cannondale.com) taking fifth.

Race Notes:



RMCC rider Alison Vrem has been turning in strong races every weekend. After moving up to the A class early in the ’09 season, Vrem has gotten strong with every race finishing 6th in today’s event.

Results

Men
1, Ali Goulet
2, Alex Grant
3, Bart Gillespie
4, Eric Rasmussen
5, Mitchel Petersen

Women
1, Erika Powers
2, Dayna Deuter
3, Chantel Olsen
4, Jen Hanks
5, Heather Edwards
6, Alison Vrem
7, Laura Patten
8, Stephanie Falls
9, Rachel Cieslewicz
10, Meaghan Cunningham
11, Heather Gilbert

Photos from Utah Cyclocross #8: Heber Fairgrounds, Heber, Utah

Click here to view our entire photo gallery from today's Utah State Championship race

Erika Powers leads Dayna Deuter through a corner

The vibe before today’s race was noticeably more tense than any other race this season. With the State Championship title on the line all riders were eying a chance to put their names in the record books.

The usual temperate Utah weather held out for the women’s event but things changed quickly as the wind picked up and winter snow storm blew through the men’s race., dropping the temperature another 10 degrees.
As the women rode from the line at 11am it was clear this would be a different race than we have seen this season. The Heber racecourse is wide and open. Add in a stiff head wind on the flats and it was clear fans would be rewarded with some close racing action.

Erika Powers (Revolution/Peak Fasteners) took the lead off the line but Dayna Deuter (Church of the big ring), Sarah Kaufmann (Roaring Mouse), and Chantel Olsen (PCIM) tucked in behind her. The four leaders opened up an early gap as confusion and a crash by Stephanie Skoryenko (Univerity of Utah) slowed the chasers.

Once free from the challengers the group took turns at the front while looking for the slightest advantage over their counterparts.

As the laps wore on Deuter and Powers started to take control. After chasing back on several times Kaufmann and Olsen finally dropped off the lead group. With just two laps left, Powers started to pull away. She looked to be on her way to a state championship just when she crashed on a tight turn transitioning from the pavement to gravel.
With Powers down Deuter charged into the lead. The Church of the Big Ring rider put in a tremendous effort and at the start of the bell lap it was now Deuter who had a 10 second lead over second placed Powers.

Powers was not about to give the race away yet. Giving it everything she had Powers, somehow bridged the gap to the leader and wasted no time overtaking the leader.

Once back in the lead, Powers gave Deuter no chance of contesting the sprint. She kept the pace high and crossed the line with a healthy gap and a State Championship title to go with it.

Deuter took second place ahead of Sarah Kaufmann, Chantel Olsen, and Jen Hanks who worked her way through the pack after a hectic start.

2008 State Champion Eric Rasmussen leads Bart Gillespie and Ali Goulet into the run up

The men’s race promised to be equally exciting with the cold and snowfall adding to the fun.

The headwinds held the group together on the first lap but Ali Goulet (Church of the Big Ring), Reed Wycoff (Contneder), Bart Gillespie (Monavie-Cannondale.com), and Eric Rasmussen (Specialized) created the first split of the race.

Reed Wycoff was the first victim of the leaders furious pace. Wycoff has a strong start but lacks the staying power of Goulet, Gillespie, and Rasmussen. After shedding Wycoff the pace up front slowed briefly. As the leaders got comfortable Alex Grant (Monavie-Cannondale.com) used the opportunity to bridge the gap. Grant displayed the strength that carried him to second place at last week’s La Ruta De Los Conquistadors stage race in Costa Rica.

For a moment it looked like Monavie would have two riders in the front group but the experience of Rasmussen and Goulet would not let that happen. Just as Grant finally closed the gap Goulet and Rasmussen launched a strong acceleration detaching Grant as quickly as he had jumped the gap to the leaders.

Once again the lead group was at three. The speed at the front stayed high with each looking comfortable. It was clear all three would be together until the finish and Goulet seemed to know exactly what to do.

Goulet takes the lead and the State Champion title

At the start of the final lap Goulet went to the front and picked up the pace. While he couldn’t quite shake Rasmussen or Gillespie they desperately clung to a half bike length gap. All throughout the final lap Goulet did just enough to insure that no one could come around him. Once they entered the final straight Goulet wound up his sprint gapping Rasmussen and giving him no chance to come around him at the line.

Rasmussen came in for second place followed closely by Gillespie for third. Alex Grant took the fourth spot, holding off Bryce Young.

Results

Women

1, Erika Powers
2, Dayna Deuter
3, Sarah Kaufmann
4, Chantel Olsen
5, Jen Hanks
6, Tanya Swensen
7, Allison Vrem
8, Jennie Wade
9, Laura Patten
10, Stephanie Falls

Men

1, Ali Goulet
2, Eric Rasmussen
3, Bart Gillespie
4, Alex Grant
5, Bryce Young