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2nd Place SPORT
Men Senior 27-34
Mike Ging - UNATTACHED |
Date: August 5, 2001 Event: Iron Hill Challenge Name: Mike Ging City: W. Chester State/Province: PA Country: USA Age: 28 CLASS +/or Age group: Senior 2 Category: Sport Team: unattached XC Race Bike: Ellsworth Truth Tires: Conti front, Mythos rear Conditions: dry, dusty and fast Email: mikeging@hotmail.com |
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Did you do everything you could to be prepared for today's race?
I rode there a week before the race to get familiar with the trails again. Tried to get my bike as dialed as possible.
Did you find the race course challenging?
It's a fun course. There's a lot of enjoyable singletrack. My favorite part was that new trail that starts up near the Mega-Dip. It's twisty and loose, with some rocks and small logs.
How did you like the Mega-Dip?
I like it. You're going so fast when you hit the bottom of the dip it feels like something is pushing down on you.
Were you strong from start to finish?
I did my best to get into the woods ahead of all the traffic. I had to back off a little after about 4 miles and settle in. Luckily, I felt very strong at the finish.
Were you happy with the way the race was run?
Yes, very happy. I am so stoked about my prize of 2 Explorer Pro tires - exactly what I needed! It was cool to hear some music from the tent every lap too.
When did you put the hammer down?
Just tried to ride my own race and stay focused. I worked a little harder on the climbs where I knew I could recover a little at the top. It seemed like I gained some ground on the grassy section on laps 2 and 3. The hammer was dropped right before the finish as soon as there was room to pass.
Did you have any unusual problems?
Thankfully, I had no real problems. I got a small branch wedged in between my fork and front tire that required me to stop and get it out. I could smell rubber burning. I've had several minor mechanicals at the last couple of races (like broken cables, bent cogs), so it was nice to finally be trouble free.
Did you have any interesting experiences during your race (exchanges with competitors/spectators)?
Major thanks to Tom, the Silva's, and Dan (J.A.R.) for their words of encouragement.
Is there anything you would like to add?
I'd also like to thank Bill Deputy, FSVS/Henry's for the great prize, Don Morrison,
Delaware Trail Spinners, everyone at JB mountain bikes, and everybody that rides
with me.