A week late but here is the scoop. keep your eyes open for an article in The Ledger LOCAL CYCLISTS PLACE AT NATIONALS!!! Local cyclists attended the Mountain Bike National Championships held at Bear Creek Resort on July 18-21. These athletes had successfully competed in rigorous regional qualifying races; however, this venue presented extreme challenges. The wooded trail clung to the edges of the resort’s ski runsWith lung-busting, punchy climbs and steep descents, the narrow, wildly twisting trail was strewn with literally thousands of sharp edged large rocks. Stepping up to the challenge of racing cross country for over an hour and a half on the first day was Cody Burnett, riding for Cycle Youth of Lakeland, placing 17th in the 15-18 year age group. Next up, Chris Collins snatched 8th in a very fast 19-29 age group. On Friday the 19th, the elite, highest level riders began competing. First off was Steve Bent, riding for Bent’s Cycling and Fitness of Lakeland. Unfortunately, the only rain of the week began just after the start, and a subsequent crash on the now greasy rocks ended his efforts. Saturday the 20th dawned clear, and the riders faced an 8am start. With huge fields of the best riders in the nation, with an extra lap, on a course that was still soggy and treacherous, the stage was set. Team Bent’s riders rose to the challenge and produced excellent results, with Mose Howard 4th , Dwayne Allgire 14th and Travis Brown finishing 13th, each in their respective age groups. Alex Meucci, riding the premier 19-29 age group, flatted halfway through the race, while holding a commanding lead. Brent Hall earned an impressive 4th in this same race. On Sunday the 21st, three Bent’s riders contested the downhill, short course, high speed, Super D event. Dwayne Allgire came up just shy of a National Title with a thrilling 2nd place finish. Mose Howard settled for 8th, while 15 year old Samuel Connell placed an impressive 8th in his first elite division race. Watch for this talented up-and-coming young rider to continue to impress.
Posted on: Mon, 29 Jul 2013 21:33:11 +0000
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