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| In the moment of the final stage with a 13th on this run// photo credit: Satchel Cronk |
June 25.2016 // Outside of Fresno, CA, within the Sierra National Forest, lies the China Peak Ski Resort which held round 4 of the California Enduro Series. This venue separates itself from the rest on the 7 round circuit with its laid back atmosphere of camping and beautiful scenery where nearby Hunington Lake flows into a refreshing river running alongside the campgrounds. However; the relaxing mood felt below quickly transitions once the deep powder and rocky terrain takes over beneath your knobbies.
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| photo credit: Jeff Vander Stucken |
The high temperatures, high altitude of almost 9000 feet at the peak, and 4 timed stages over the technical terrain made China Peak one of the most physically demanding race yet in my opinion. Coming off my 7th place result at the previous round left me pretty excited to try and finish within the top 10 again. With almost 40 very talented riders in the Pro class, I knew times were going to be very close and competitive. I found myself struggling throughout the day physically and hovering just outside of the top 20 during the days' stages, although nailed a few decent times with a 13th and 18th on two of my runs. Finishing 20th overall left me right in the middle of the pack and itching to get back up to pace for the remaining 3 events.
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| No rock is too big nor too difficult for the Specialized Enduro to handle//photo: Satchel Cronk |
Scotts Valley Cyclesport has been such a huge part in making this season possible with race support in the form of traveling , a positive presence at each event and providing advice and encouragement to be the best possible on and off the track. Do yourself a favor if ever in the Santa Cruz area and stop by SVCS to check out what this professional yet friendly shop has to offer!
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| Checking out the gnar of stage 3! |
Well that's a wrap, Next up will be the loamy dirt under the trees of Ashland, OR in July!
Always a big thank you to those who support me: Specialized Bicycles, SV Cyclesport, Praxis Works, Gamut USA, Krawl Clothing, FOX, Spy Optic, ODI Grips, Stikrd, and Monster Army!
