Event: No Cents Summer Sizzler, NJ

Name: Chris Eatough

City: Baldwin

State/Province: MD

Country: USA

Age: 27

Place: 1st

Category: Pro

CLASS +/or Age group: Senior

Team: Trek/VW

XC Race Bike: Trek 9.8

Tires: Bontrager Jones AC

Conditions: Dry, hot, fast.

How was your fitness level going into this race?

Good, I have been training hard to prepare for the Norba Nationals in mid June.

Were you happy with your position going into the singletrack?

No, I was 5th. With the tightness of the course, this was a problem. It took a while for me to pass, and David Duvall and Jason Moore gained an early lead. It took me 3 laps to get to the front.

Were you strong from start to finish?

Yes, I felt good.

When did you put the hammer down?

Jason was riding well and holding onto my wheel, so it required some pretty serious attacks on the 4th lap to get away. It seemed like if I attacked on every one of the short climbs, I could gain a few seconds.

Did you have any unusual problems?

Just not being sharp enough off the line to get the holeshot.

Were you happy with the way the race was run?

Yes. Awards were very quick (I almost missed them!). The start was delayed, which is understandable, but communication could be better so the riders know when to be ready (can we have a "race news update chalkboard"??)

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

The crowd on the short switchback climb was awesome. The cheering and cowbells were the most impressive I have ever known at a regional race, which really kept up the excitement and energy level.

Anything you would like to add?

2+2 = 4