Event: Escape From Granouge

Name: George Bressler

City: Etters

State/Province: PA

Country: USA

Age: 46

Place: 1st

Category: Sport

CLASS +/or Age group: Master One

Team: Cycle Works

XC Race Bike: Cannondale Scalpel

Tires: Michelin/Kenda

Conditions: Dry&HOT

Email: B1benben@cs.com

How was your fitness level going into this race?

Very Good-- the local fast boys keep me in shape; I also purchased a road bike to prepare for longer races.

Were you happy with your position going into the singletrack?

Yes-- I was also thrilled to see the trails were dry! No mud, no dust- just gorgeous trail.

Were you strong from start to finish?

Yes- I made Muncie's revenge both laps.

When did you put the hammer down?

At the start & I never let up.

Did you have any unusual problems?

My team captain told me he got the chills last week at Michaux- the onset of heat exhaustion. On the second lap on one of the field climbs I got 'em too-- luckily we ducked into the woods (MUCH cooler) & they went away.

Were you happy with the way the race was run?

Yes- very organized & well run. The kids race, the swag raffle, the classy signs everywhere- all the right touches. At the riders meeting the guy said he thought Granouge was the toughest race of the series-- he obviously has never been to Fell Mtn. I will give him the nod for the most beautiful setting for a race however.

Did you have any interesting experiences during your race (exchanges with competitors/spectators)?

There was a hard right around a big tree followed by a steep, rooty, rocky drop off. I did the monster nose wheelie of my life on the second lap documented on film by the ever-present, ever smiling Bill D.

Anything you would like to add?

I felt sorry for the experts doing three laps in that heat. I think they shortened the last lap for the women- a great move. I also thought it was hilarious that it rained all the way to the race! Anyway- thanks to the Wooden Wheels gang for a fantastic event.