Brad Bugher

1st Place
BEGINNER VET 2
GRANOGUE

Name: Brad Bugher

City: Newark

State/Province: DE

Country: USA

Age: 43

Place: 1st

Category: Beginner

Class or Age Group: Vet II

Team: Y's Guys

Race Bike: Gary Fisher Sugar 4

Conditions: damp and slippery

How was your fitness level going into this race?
 
I have not put the time in on the trail that I wanted to this spring, but I was well rested after Michaux and have been cardio training at the YMCA 3-4 days a week for months.

Were you happy with your position going into the singletrack?
 
Yes, I had a good start and climbed away from the the pack and was leading when I hit the singletrack.

Were you strong from start to finish?
 
Yes, I like climbing and starting and finishing on the gradual doubletrack hill was perfect. I was well rested with 2 days off and able to maintain a high heart rate level for the entire race.

When did you put the hammer down?
 
I pushed hard right from the start. I have been working on my start in practice and it paid off. I was able to stretch a lead on the first climb and was able to hold it for the rest of the race.

Did you have any unusual problems?
 
Fortunately not, it was a very clean ride without any falls or mechanical problems.

Were you happy with the way the race was run?
 
This race is well organized and is a pleasure to ride. The timing is very professional and results are posted quickly. It is nice to have the awards ceremony held so quickly after each race.