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1st Place BEGINNER
Men Master 45-49
George Bressler - BUSHEY'S Cycling and Fitness |
Date: September 30, 2001 Event: Spring Mtn Challenge Name: George Bressler City: Etters State/Province: PA Country: USA Age: 46 CLASS +/or Age group: Master 45-49 Category: Beginner Team: Bushey's Cycling and Fitness XC Race Bike: Cannondale Jekyll 3000 Tires: Specialized Team Master/Control Conditions: Perfect Email: B1benben@CS.com |
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Did you do everything you could to prepare for today's race?
Raced the previous two weekends, had a great training ride Tuesday, rested late week, then caught a beautiful head cold Friday. Saturday we pre-rode the course- my throat was so sore I couldn't swallow.
Did you have any problems getting into the singletrack?
Two guys on Gary Fishers led up the driveway and thru the camp but as soon as we got to the rocks they floundered (bad.) Stan (in master 2) and I took off and it was bye-bye birdie(s).
How did you like the climbs?
As always, it's the climbs that separate the MEN from the (other men). I love rocks, I love climbs, put the two together and it is seventh heaven.
Were you strong from start to finish?
Yes, despite being sick I was able to haul ass the entire race.
Were you happy with the way the race was run?
Yes. Plenty of arrows and course ribbon, excellent staging, and I LOVED the music! They played Once Bitten, Twice Shy (Ian Hunter- performed by Great White) during our race - I had tears in my eyes.
When did you put the hammer down?
At the first serious climb Stan, who was ahead of me, made a very inspired run up the hill. The only problem was he was not on his bike. At the top of the hill, with his heart at redline, I passed him and it was ARRIVA-DERCHE.
Did you have any unusual problems?
Yes. On the starting grid I was thrilled to see all the air had leaked out of my back shock. My lovely wife ran back to the truck for the shock pump, and I was humping air into it as they called me to the line. As we speak, that POS is collecting more frequent flyer miles on it's third trip back to California.
Did you have any interesting experiences during your race (exchanges with competitors/spectators)?
It was nice hearing my honey cheering for me.
Did you feel any extra excitement since this is the final Super Series race?
I was VERY EXCITED when my wife told me I had missed my series finals podium spot while I was spectating the expert race.
If you had just ONE thing that you could change to make next year's series better....... what would that be?
I can't think of a thing. AT ALL.
Anything you would like to add?
It is very rare to be able to do something for someone that they will never forget. Don and Bill have done this for me. My first year of mtn bike racing was very successful and their wonderful series was the reason why. I can never say thank you enough.