Ransom Weaver Race Interview - Subaru Fall Classic '01

Well, I had the lead approaching the bit of pavement, and decided to take the high line along the fence. Mike Kuhn, proponent of pavement that he is, came swooping along below and stole the holeshot. That was cool though, 'cause I wanted to follow him anyway.

How did you like the manhole downhill?

The manhole downhill was pretty smooth down the left; it was that earlier, really rocky downhill that scared me. I also really enjoyed the bit of log-rock uphill after the bridge with the marshall spotting you. Very satisfying to clean it.

Were you strong from start to finish?

I guess I was. I was following Mike Kuhn the first 2/3 of the race; Eric slick attacked after a lap and a half; but he never got more than 10-20 sec up. Mike was super smooth to follow.

Were you happy with the way the race was run?

Big thanks and thumbs up to Bill, Mike and all the Guys volunteers making this such a great event. The water station was delightful on such a humid day. And Thanks to Neshaminy High School and board for having us!

When did you put the hammer down?

With a lap and a half to go, Mike Kuhn took a wrong turn; I didn't try to drop him so much as I was trying to keep the speed of our chase up. We could see that Eric Slick was starting to fade. I guess Mike was starting to feel the previous day's road race, and he never got up to me again. I caught Eric shortly thereafter on one of the rocky uphill gullies, and then I really did put the hammer down.

Did you have any unusual problems?

I got a little nervous about flatting after Romolo exploded his front tubeless right behind me on the front lip of a bridge, but otherwise nothing untoward.

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

Alas, no.

Did you climb the steep uphill on any laps?

On my hands and knees practically.

Anything you'd like to add?

I love bikes!