7-7-12 ABRA Tomlinson Run XC Challenge

This past Saturday Rich Allen, Hannah Brewer and I traveled to the far northern tip of the WV panhandle for the ABRA Tomlinson Run XC Challenge. In spite of forecasted high temps of 101F, almost 100 racers ignored the weather station warnings (and the threat of heat related exhaustion) and showed up to compete.

(photo courtesy of Fred Jordan)

As predicted, things were getting pretty hot by the noon start and the high DNF rate indicated the difficulty of the conditions. Towards the end of lap one, I came across Hannah who was having problems with a stuck chain and possibly a bent rear derailleur hanger. High kudo’s to Travis Olson (of Consol Energy Racing) who had stopped to help Hannah with this mechanical issue. Thanks to Travis, Hannah was quickly back on the trail and able to finish the race (relatively) trouble free.

My only fall of the day was towards the end of the 2nd lap in the stream crossing. As I tumbled into the cool water, I realized that this was the smartest thing that I had done all day.

(photo courtesy of Mike Briggs ... who was gracious enough to let me pick myself up before shooting this pic)

The course was mostly flowing single track with a few brief road sections and a some steep, loose downhill trails. By the 2nd lap, Richy and I were both feeling the effects of the heat (my car showed 100F, parked in the shade !) while Hannah continued to ride strongly. Thankfully, we were all able to hang on for good finishes.

Hannah – 2nd place, Women - Cat 2/3 - Sport
Richy – 3rd place, Men - Cat 1/2/3 - Masters 55+
Kirk – 3rd place, Men – Cat 1/2/3 – Masters 45+

(photo courtesy of Fred Jordan)

After this 2nd race of the ABRA Mtb Series, Richy and I are both in 2nd place in our divisions while Hannah is tied for 3rd place in an extremely close grouping (only one point away from 1st !!). The final event of this series is the White Park XC Race on August 5th in Morgantown, WV. Should be exciting !

Once again, the organization, course conditions and markings were exceptional. This was another great race hosted by JR and Gina (who both never stopped smiling in spite of the oppressive heat) ! Highly recommended.

Race Results: https://www.usacycling.org/results/index.php?permit=2012-691

Mtb Series Standings: http://www.abraracing.com/Results/2012mtbSTANDINGS.pdf