Good friends, good race, good times

Just got back from the Original Growler race last night - and I'm moving pretty slow this morning! I've mentioned that this is one of my favorite events of the year and the 3rd running was no exception. I drove down with Rob and Dave, who are pretty much the best travel partners you could ask for. An easy road trip makes for easy preparation leading up to an event like this.



Fresh off of the first ride on the new top fuel 9.9, my 2nd ride would be in the Growler, which is the ultimate test on your body and equipment. This bike is so light and responsive that it made my job a whole lot easier. Bontrager sent some prototype tires and I was set for the race. The bike worked perfect - which made for an incredible day in the saddle.






I had a few cohorts for the first 32 miles, including Travis Brown and Jake Wells. We were pushing pretty good and came in after the first lap together.



T Brown had to mess with his tire, while Jake and I took on fluids and some food. Out of the start/finish I started pushing and realized I was having one of those days where the legs feel pretty dang good considering the mileage. I just kept pushing through the 2nd 32 mile lap, nervously looking over my shoulder every once in a while. I was fortunate enough to keep that lead all the way to the end.



I owe a big thanks to Heidi Raylea for handing up bottles for me so I could keep pushing - and her boyfriend (and good friend of mine) Ward, who's just always a good guy to see at the races.

Travis and Jake are truly good guys who are perfect ambassadors for the sport of mountain biking. I'm lucky to race with such classy guys.

km

(All photos were taken by a great photographer named Rob O'Dea. www.robodeaphotography.com)