May 2, 2004 - INTERVIEW
Name: Chris Eatough
City: Ellicott City
State/Province: MD
Country: USA
Age: 29
Place: 1st
Category: Pro
Class or Age Group: Senior
Team: Trek/VW
Race Bike: Fuel 100
Tires: Bontrager Super X and Jones ACX
Conditions: Humid, slick trails
How was your fitness level going into this race?
I've been training well this week, then I rested on Friday, so I think
I was well prepared for the race.
Were you happy with your position
going into the singletrack?
I was 3rd behind Brandon Ott and Greg Marini. Greg slipped out exiting
the first singletrack, so I lost Brandon's wheel, but it wasn't a big
deal.
Were you strong from start to finish?
I didn't feel strong, but I rode the technical sections as smooth and fast
as possible, and I rode smart.
When did you put the hammer down?
When I saw Brandon for the first time all race, which was on the last lap
just before the tunnel. It was an exciting finish to the race because
things completely turned around on the last lap.
Did you have any unusual
problems?
Yes, I had difficulty breathing. I had some tests done for seasonal allergies
on Friday, my body had very strong reaction and it gave me a rash. I
think the pollens they tested me with must still be affecting me, because I
was very restricted during the race.
Were you happy with the way the
race was run?
Yes, everything was great. The start was delayed, but everything was clearly
communicated, which is the most important thing.
Did you have
any interesting experiences during your race (exchanges with competitors/spectators)?
The photographers in the woods had some unusual flashes on the cameras. It
was like the X-Files back there!
Anything you would like to add?
Thanks to the Trek team mechanic, Steve B. for working on my bike before
the race. It worked like a dream.