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| Polygon Factory use KORE parts |
Wednesday, 3 August 2011
Sebastian Vasquez World Masters DHI Champion
Sebastian Vasquez World Masters DHI Champion
The Masters World Championships were held for the second year running in Camboriu, Brazil, a beautiful venue that was previously used for the Mountain Bike World Cup and that ends at the Laranjeiras beach. The track there is physically very demanding despite not being very long, this is because it's set in a jungle with extreme heat and humidity when the sun is out and a sticky slippery mud with torrential downpour when not.
Our friend Sebastian who had previously attained the first of his Pan-Am masters titles (on top of a couple elite titles) on the very same track in 2006, knew from experience the difference between a slow sluggish and muddy track, and a hardpacked roller coaster ride was only an hour or so of blistering Brazilian sun, and so he felt his goal posting the best time of the day, was in danger as after him the whole A1 group (30 to 34 years of age) would be riding on a faster course.
This meant chances had to be taken, and so he did, thankfully when the dust and the mud settled their was a reward for this all or nothing attitude, as after all riders had taken their shot at his time, he still sat in the hot seat and quickly was crowned Masters World Champion for the second year running.
Congratulations to Sebastian from all at KORE!
Friday, 29 July 2011
ADAM BRAYTON BRITISH NATIONAL CHAMPS REPORT
It’s been a while since I’ve done a race report and that’s mainly down to poor results to be honest, but after the national champs at the weekend things are starting to look up, actually the more I think about it, things really picked up at the Windam world cup where my chain snapped on the start straight and I boshed a tree in my run and was 13secs down on old gwinner, so I got a huge boost of confidence there. After America I haven’t rode until the national champs, I was pretty worn out so it was a good chance to get some rest and just chill out.
I landed down at Lang g on the Friday night and got right to bed in the scudo hotel next door to baz (Harry Heath) I could hear his suspension squeaking all night, God knows what he was up to in there.
Saturday morning I got up the track early and checked out the new wooded section it was looking mean as, just how it should be!
I was pretty chilled in practice and just having fun, there is some great turns on the track and the cut wet screams were hooking up a treat, my whole set up just felt dialled in and Saturday was done and dusted with 4 runs in the book.
Saturday night was just chilled, six Pac came round with his new bible, so he read me a few stories out of that then I left him for a bit to make some phone calls and when I came back he was still reading his bible it was good times, he’s right into the old bible bashing, but he put in a solid performance this weekend so I’m stoked for him!! Well done 6 Pac.
Sunday and my goals were pretty clear in my head and that was to win so once I qualified 1st I was real happy with that and I knew I could build on it for finals.
Going up for finals I was so chilled, it’s amazing how much a bit of confidence changes you! I was focused and ready for it, at the top it was a mean feeling of being last man down, it was my 1st time in this situation so knowing everyone waiting down at the bottom seeing if you could do it was pretty sick!
Right out the gate I went hard, this run was all or nothing and I took some great risks but that’s what it takes to win, you have to put it all on the line and that’s the best feeling ever, there was some insane moments up there that all added up to cost me time but I felt like I attacked every inch of that track so crossing the line in 3rd was a huge disappointment at the time but once I got back to the van and thought things though, it was a great day! I put it on the line and gave it everything and that’s all you can do, I didn’t cross the line and think ohh what if I had done this or that... there was none of that so it was cool to put down a solid run and that feeling for me is as good as winning! Old Ruaridh he put in a stormer well done mate!
Thanks to everyone that supported me last weekend, really appreciate it and everyone that supports me, the guys at Banshee, RaceFace, Elka, KORE, Five Ten, Oneal, Hope, Straitline, THE, Drift, Frame Wrap, Cane Creek, WTB, E*thirteen, Crank Brothers... Hope I haven’t missed anyone. Cheers.
Wednesday, 20 July 2011
Team Abarth MTB – UCI Downhill World Cup: Windham with Olie Burton
Team Abarth MTB – UCI Downhill World Cup: Windham with Olie Burton
So today was the finals of Windham world cup round 5 in New York USA. Another day of great weather made me even more excited to get up on track and see how it was running with all the hot weather we had yesterday. The track had dried up a lot was running really fast. I went up for my third run and it was going great, before I had a big micanical at the end of the open section. My tryre popped of the rim and I was lucky not to have a big crash. When I had a look at the bike, it looked like the cause was a worn tyre bead. I decided the best thing to do would be to build a new wheel and and put a new tyre and tube on then I knew that there would be no risk of that happening again during my race run. I didnt have long to do this as my race run was at 2.18pm but everything went smoothly with the build so I was ok for time.
My race run went well, I had a clean run down the hill and hit all my lines, but just didnt feel like I’d pushed hard enough. I’m happy to put together a mistake free solid run but I know I need to push to get where I want to be. I finished up 68th today and really happy to get another top 80 result. Im looking forward to a few days of with my family in New York before heading home for some more training and our national championships at the super steep Llangollen track.
OLIE BURTON RIPS UP THE UK NATIONAL CURCIT AND WORLD CUP SCENE ON KORE BARS, SEATS AND SEATPOSTS!
Wednesday, 6 July 2011
TRANSITION RACING UPDATE
TRANSITION RACING UPDATE- MSA World Cup # 4 |
| Qualifying by Jill Kintner / July 1st - Today was an awesome day compared to yesterday’s mudfest!! Still muddy as hell, but the puddles disappeared in most spots, ruts and holes were there the whole way though. no rain or mist in your face which make it so nice to be able to see. This place has it all- High speeds, rocks, roots, and everything else you want to put into a wild rodeo ride down a hill. That quali run was my first non fog run. It’s been so dense that you can’t see the ground from the chair lift! Haven’t done too many runs yet, can count them on one hand. Body felt ok today, so that was fantastic after the carcus I had yesterday. My crash today was super lame , into a big slop mud bog, but I’m still in the mix for sunday. I ended up 7th. Rode the technical bits pretty good I thought, but didn’t really let it roll in the fast bits too much, crash lost a bunch of time too. just wasn’t feeling it quite yet. Qualifying is just that, make it into the top 20, although I’d love to get some points to loose my number 13. Have some stuff to work on. The ever changing terrain here should be drying up a little in the next couple days. Won the speed trap again, Woo!!  Yesterday was nice and sunny, mostly dry besides a downpour during practice. Stage was set, track was running fast, no complaints really. Race run didn’t exactly go as smooth as I was hoping for. Going good up top, till the turn into the hip under the lift. My from wheel slid out just before the take off, as I was about to pull up, and it was nasty. My body cleared the jump, bike hit the front of the landing , and I went tumbling down the hill near the berm, few cartwheels, kinda dizzy, then. Had to find my bike from up higher and carry on with a numb shoulder and a a bit dizzy. Almost went over the bars a few times after that not being able to hold on. Still managed 12th? and it’s a bit of a miracle I’m not hurt, sore as hell, but no damage. gnarly high speed crash. For sure a little stiff. Mt.St.Anne wasn’t very kind to me this week, even though I loved her speed and technical sections. Can’t wait to finish a run:( speed feels good. no more #13, up to #11, kicked that curse at least.   After her win at the Crested Butte stop of the Pro GRT. Jill has managed to secure the series overall title for the second year in a row!!  Just a quick rundown on how thing's are going with my injury. I had an appointment with my Dr on Thursday to get some x-rays, and see how the bones are healing. He was happy with my progress but said it is still going to be another 6 weeks before my femur is fully healed.. Such a big bone, and with the complexity of my break, this lengthy healing process was expected. I see a physical therapist 3 days a week, and I'm very close to full range of motion in both my elbow and leg. The plan is to kick the wheelchair to the curb in 2 weeks, be on crutches for the remaining 4 weeks. In that last 4 weeks, I will be increasing the weight bearing on my leg by 25% each week. By August 11th I will be on my feet walking unassisted. From there I am still going to have to take it easy for a few months before I can get back to ripping it. It's a long old road, but we're getting closer.  Things are going really well with the old kickstand. Was able to go for my first spin on the trainer this week which prompted my first urban cruise. This is technically not dr. approved aside from the fact that it's the same as the trainer I just have to remember not to dismount to the left side. I have been cleared for full range of motion, and 40lbs of weight bearing on the foot. On Mon the 11th I go back in for more images to see if there's bone union where the plate on the fibula was installed. If so, I may be cleared to ditch the crutches! This will be exactly 6 weeks post op, and I hope to be riding by the end of the month. I will be back attending some regional Super D events in August, with a small possibility of racing in them. It is entirely dependent on the recovery process, and how well it's going. I have no intention of pushing the chances of re-injury. See you on the trails! TRANSITION BIKES FACTORY TEAM USE KORE BARS, STEMS, SEATS AND SEAT POSTS |
44 Racing Rockstar - Redfest
44 Racing Rockstar - Redfest
Jun 28, 2011
A weekend of racing awaited 44Racing Rockstar as they moved away from battle at the last round of the World and Euro 4X series. With a mix of fun Pump track, Dual Slalom and 4X racing throughout the weekend, Redfest looked to be a great, light hearted weekend allowing the team some practise before the final round of the National series here at Redhill in September.
Having made major alterations to the park the crew at Redhill set up their festival weekend to raise the funds to buy a start gate of their own and hopefully run their own regional series. A pump race and Dual slalom would take place on the first day followed by a full days 4X racing the day after. Points from all three events would be added up to find and crown ‘King of the Hill’.
PUMP TRACK
Unlike conventional pump races the track at Redhill starts at the top of the hill flowing down to the bottom. Mixing in two of the many pump tracks at Redhill, this year’s event gave a mix of features looking to suit all riders, ranging from pump rollers to flowing berms or off camber grass corners, with even a few hucks thrown in to test a rider’s nerve. The race was on, each rider got two timed runs to set their best time with the strict rule of no pedalling.
Up first for the team was Connor ‘Chudson’ Hudson. Having struggled with arm pump in his first run, Connor aimed to take his Last Rufus into a better time and looked hopeful to move up the overall ranking. Getting a great start through the rollers at the top of the track and keeping this speed throughout the run, Chudson moved himself into thirty-forth with a good time of 29.5 seconds. With all categories mixed in together this was a great result with such a tough field. Also joining Connor from the younger age group was Bardolph Kerr. With a little bit of BMX racing in his background Kerr looked super fast through the pump sections of the track, looking promising to be well up the order. Bard came in just behind Hudson, but quickly moved on to practise for the slalom and wasn’t able to catch a definite finishing time or place.
Making his debut for the team at Redfest was new signing Joe Mallinson. Having caught Hatch’s attention with some impressive results, great style and even greater attitude at the first three rounds of the Nationals, Joe was snapped up and will be racing for the team for the rest of the season. Lining up in fresh new Fox 360 gear from Freestylextreme.com, Joe put in a great first time. Being one of the only riders to hit the big double half way down, Mallinson improved on his first run with a 27.3 moving him into seventeenth.
Training with his team mates throughout practise, Jack Hudson hoped for a good result at the first event of the weekend. Making a few mistakes in his first run Jack hoped to better his time of 27.7 in his following run. Sadly, out of the start, Jack slipped both of his pedals. With his cranks spinning in the process Hudson’s second run time was disqualified. Although he did improve to a 27.1 this was not able to count forcing the Chicksands local to settle for nineteenth.
Coming back from the World Cup at Fort William, Mop Head looked likely to continue his good form today. Keeping smooth the whole way down the loose and dusty course Mop Head was able to secure a sixth place finish with his first run time. Mop was unable to better his great first run and instead sat back to enjoy the Rockstar and support his team mates whilst handling the mic and giving some great commentating.
DUAL SLALOM
That evening riders moved along the grassy slope at Redhill for the Dual Slalom contest. Taking MTB back to its roots the track featured an old school layout. With flat corners running down the grass the event was to kick up some excitement as dampness drew in with the dark.
With great success in the pump track Mop Head was automatically moved into the quarter finals. With all the other team riders having to battle it out from the start he was able to continue commentating and making his team mates known.
Up first was Bardolph Kerr. Being drawn with a tough opponent Bard held him close down the tight course but was unable to take the win and went out in the round of sixty-four. Also with super hard competition was Connor Hudson. Crashing on the last corner Chudson also went out in round one with his team mate.
Jack and Joe were the only two riders in round two having won both their first heats. Hudson got off the second round for the team taking the win. Mallinson was drawn up against super fast local boy Tom D-P. With only a fraction of a second separating the pair Joe sadly wasn’t able to make it through to the following round.
Moving through round three, Jack was drawn up against Mop Head in the quarter final. With the pair doing a run on each lane it was still under a second separating them both after the two races. Continuing his run of success Jack moved on to face local boy Lewis Richards in the semi final. Crashing out on turn two Hudson moved into the B final placing fourth overall.
FOUR CROSS
Having had very little sleep in the boiling heat the team returned to Redhill the following day. Getting in as much practise before the weather got even hotter all the 44Racing Rockstar riders looked to be enjoying the new track and setting the pace for their competition to match.
With Mop Head leaving for an important family event the team were joined today by AJ Boardman. Usually racing in Pro Elite, this weekend the top category was mixed in with the seniors putting AJ as one of the favourites. Getting fantastic results in the motos taking wins in all three, AJ cruised through into the main final. Getting tangled up in turn two Boardman was still able to remount and hold off any attacks to take second.
Still tired after last night’s racing Jack Hudson seemed to be struggling with the windy conditions on the 4x track. Managing to take two seconds and a third in the motos, Jack was given a run off to try and make the finals. Keeping close with local legend Luke Limbrick, Jack was only able to finish second. Not moving through any further Hudson placed ninth.
With great 4x results already this season Bardolph Kerr was expected to continue this great form at the smaller event. Winning all three motos by a comfortable margin Bard went straight into the youth A final. Getting pushed out in turn one Bard was not able to regain his lead but could still finish a great second.
Youth racer Connor Hudson got some good moto results with two thirds and a second. Moving through into the small final Chudson got a great snap holding second in turn one. Trying to make a move for the win Hudson wasn’t able to and finished second. Sixth place overall making his first final in his first season in youth.
It was only the day before the event that Joe Mallinson got his Halo 4XR wheels moving on the Last frame. Debuting the bike at this race, Mallinson made some great moves in the motos with a second and two thirds. With few competitors in Junior Joe moved straight into the main final. Putting in a fantastic inside move in turn one Joe took the lead and dropped off the rest of the competition. With the small amount of riders in his category the days racing acted ‘grand prix style’ with all races being treated as a moto to count towards a final position and, because of this, Joe was moved into second place. A brilliant result having only had his bike a day.
Jake Ward had to chosen to miss this event to save himself for National Champs in a couple of weeks. Team Manager Christian Hatcher was at the event supporting the team with a full pit set up but will be out for the rest of the 4x season with a serious knee injury.
44Racing currently use KORE T Rail seats and seat posts but are already testing new products in preperation for next year!!!
Having made major alterations to the park the crew at Redhill set up their festival weekend to raise the funds to buy a start gate of their own and hopefully run their own regional series. A pump race and Dual slalom would take place on the first day followed by a full days 4X racing the day after. Points from all three events would be added up to find and crown ‘King of the Hill’.
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| 44Racing Factory Last Rufus's Decked Out With Fox Forks, Halo Wheels, Kore Seats & Posts and Funn Components |
PUMP TRACK
Unlike conventional pump races the track at Redhill starts at the top of the hill flowing down to the bottom. Mixing in two of the many pump tracks at Redhill, this year’s event gave a mix of features looking to suit all riders, ranging from pump rollers to flowing berms or off camber grass corners, with even a few hucks thrown in to test a rider’s nerve. The race was on, each rider got two timed runs to set their best time with the strict rule of no pedalling.
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| Chudson On The Pump Track |
Up first for the team was Connor ‘Chudson’ Hudson. Having struggled with arm pump in his first run, Connor aimed to take his Last Rufus into a better time and looked hopeful to move up the overall ranking. Getting a great start through the rollers at the top of the track and keeping this speed throughout the run, Chudson moved himself into thirty-forth with a good time of 29.5 seconds. With all categories mixed in together this was a great result with such a tough field. Also joining Connor from the younger age group was Bardolph Kerr. With a little bit of BMX racing in his background Kerr looked super fast through the pump sections of the track, looking promising to be well up the order. Bard came in just behind Hudson, but quickly moved on to practise for the slalom and wasn’t able to catch a definite finishing time or place.
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| Kerr Getting Sideways |
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| Mallinson Shows His Style |
Making his debut for the team at Redfest was new signing Joe Mallinson. Having caught Hatch’s attention with some impressive results, great style and even greater attitude at the first three rounds of the Nationals, Joe was snapped up and will be racing for the team for the rest of the season. Lining up in fresh new Fox 360 gear from Freestylextreme.com, Joe put in a great first time. Being one of the only riders to hit the big double half way down, Mallinson improved on his first run with a 27.3 moving him into seventeenth.
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| Joe Mallinson's New Factory Last Rufus |
Training with his team mates throughout practise, Jack Hudson hoped for a good result at the first event of the weekend. Making a few mistakes in his first run Jack hoped to better his time of 27.7 in his following run. Sadly, out of the start, Jack slipped both of his pedals. With his cranks spinning in the process Hudson’s second run time was disqualified. Although he did improve to a 27.1 this was not able to count forcing the Chicksands local to settle for nineteenth.
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| Jack Hudson |
Coming back from the World Cup at Fort William, Mop Head looked likely to continue his good form today. Keeping smooth the whole way down the loose and dusty course Mop Head was able to secure a sixth place finish with his first run time. Mop was unable to better his great first run and instead sat back to enjoy the Rockstar and support his team mates whilst handling the mic and giving some great commentating.
DUAL SLALOM
That evening riders moved along the grassy slope at Redhill for the Dual Slalom contest. Taking MTB back to its roots the track featured an old school layout. With flat corners running down the grass the event was to kick up some excitement as dampness drew in with the dark.
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| 44Racing team rider Jack Hudson owning the Redfest dual slalom |
With great success in the pump track Mop Head was automatically moved into the quarter finals. With all the other team riders having to battle it out from the start he was able to continue commentating and making his team mates known.
Up first was Bardolph Kerr. Being drawn with a tough opponent Bard held him close down the tight course but was unable to take the win and went out in the round of sixty-four. Also with super hard competition was Connor Hudson. Crashing on the last corner Chudson also went out in round one with his team mate.
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| Hudson Getting Lent Over On The Grass |
Jack and Joe were the only two riders in round two having won both their first heats. Hudson got off the second round for the team taking the win. Mallinson was drawn up against super fast local boy Tom D-P. With only a fraction of a second separating the pair Joe sadly wasn’t able to make it through to the following round.
Moving through round three, Jack was drawn up against Mop Head in the quarter final. With the pair doing a run on each lane it was still under a second separating them both after the two races. Continuing his run of success Jack moved on to face local boy Lewis Richards in the semi final. Crashing out on turn two Hudson moved into the B final placing fourth overall.
FOUR CROSS
Having had very little sleep in the boiling heat the team returned to Redhill the following day. Getting in as much practise before the weather got even hotter all the 44Racing Rockstar riders looked to be enjoying the new track and setting the pace for their competition to match.
With Mop Head leaving for an important family event the team were joined today by AJ Boardman. Usually racing in Pro Elite, this weekend the top category was mixed in with the seniors putting AJ as one of the favourites. Getting fantastic results in the motos taking wins in all three, AJ cruised through into the main final. Getting tangled up in turn two Boardman was still able to remount and hold off any attacks to take second.
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| AJ On The Way To Another Moto Win |
Still tired after last night’s racing Jack Hudson seemed to be struggling with the windy conditions on the 4x track. Managing to take two seconds and a third in the motos, Jack was given a run off to try and make the finals. Keeping close with local legend Luke Limbrick, Jack was only able to finish second. Not moving through any further Hudson placed ninth.
With great 4x results already this season Bardolph Kerr was expected to continue this great form at the smaller event. Winning all three motos by a comfortable margin Bard went straight into the youth A final. Getting pushed out in turn one Bard was not able to regain his lead but could still finish a great second.
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Youth racer Connor Hudson got some good moto results with two thirds and a second. Moving through into the small final Chudson got a great snap holding second in turn one. Trying to make a move for the win Hudson wasn’t able to and finished second. Sixth place overall making his first final in his first season in youth.
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| Connor Hudson |
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| 44Racing's New Signing Joe Mallinson |
It was only the day before the event that Joe Mallinson got his Halo 4XR wheels moving on the Last frame. Debuting the bike at this race, Mallinson made some great moves in the motos with a second and two thirds. With few competitors in Junior Joe moved straight into the main final. Putting in a fantastic inside move in turn one Joe took the lead and dropped off the rest of the competition. With the small amount of riders in his category the days racing acted ‘grand prix style’ with all races being treated as a moto to count towards a final position and, because of this, Joe was moved into second place. A brilliant result having only had his bike a day.
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| 44Racing Rockstar Energy Drink Pits |
Jake Ward had to chosen to miss this event to save himself for National Champs in a couple of weeks. Team Manager Christian Hatcher was at the event supporting the team with a full pit set up but will be out for the rest of the 4x season with a serious knee injury.
44Racing currently use KORE T Rail seats and seat posts but are already testing new products in preperation for next year!!!
Olie Burton take first Elite win of the season
What a weekend..! The teams first win of the season, and Olie’s first win in Elite only four races into his first year in the category! With a stacked elite field, including CRC Nuke Proof rider Joe Smith, Hope’s Tom Braithwaite and Morewood’s Dan Critchlow, the stakes were high. Olie not only raised his game in his first race since the teams 9 day trip to San Remo, he made sure everyone knew he was the fastest man down, with a full 1.5 second lead over second placed Joe Smith.
The weather wasn’t kind this weekend, again with frequent heavy rain showers making a lottery of the running order, sparing some, and punishing others throughout the day. Bringewood is well known for having one of the greasiest surfaces in the UK when it rains, thanks to an overwhelming amount of clay in the ground, and this weekend was no exception. Coming into first runs, there was an almighty shower that lasted about 40 minutes, meaning that Michael and the rest of the Junior category had some of the toughest conditions of the day. Along with many, Michael struggled to hold it together in his run, losing a lot of time, just trying to keep the bike in a straight line! By the time it got to Expert and Elite first runs however, the sun had been out for well over an hour, and riders were coming across the line pretty clean. John had a less than perfect run, with feet off the pedals moments causing more than one or two issues better off forgotten, but still came down into 8th place, which was pretty good for a bad run. With Olie up next, it was fingers crossed for a good run, and that’s exactly what was delivered, with 1st place all wrapped up, with a healthy margin.
Time for 2nd runs, and with the sun now having been out for 3 hours or so, the track was running fast. Michael put in a solid run, knocking over 7 seconds off his first time, but still with a less than ideal number of mistakes, which left him in 19th. With the weather looking good, and reports of dust on track from other riders, the question of whether to risk it and swap to dry tyres was the one on everyones minds. John decided to make the swap and go for a highroller on the front, leaving the spike on the back. However, no sooner had he made the swap (and with Olie seconds away from switching to dries as well), the heavens opened, and the BBC weather report rang true!! More rain, but only 15 minutes worth this time. What would the track be like?? Well the answer was damp, which left a tyre dilemma.. back to wets or stick with the change. Olie stuck with the spikes (a wise choice), while John stuck with his highroller cut spike combination. Once at the top of the track, things were looking good, the track was still dry in the woods, and the rain holding off…. or was it!! No was the answer, just after setting off, John hit the open section, and surprise, it was raining pretty hard. So after a lot of struggling to stay upright, it was a slightly slower run for John ,leaving him in 9th. Ten minutes later, and Olie would be up, and wow was the rain coming down now! None of the elites managed to better Olie’s first run time, although CRC’s Joe Smith got close, meaning that storming first run had done the business and Olie took the win!!
The weather wasn’t kind this weekend, again with frequent heavy rain showers making a lottery of the running order, sparing some, and punishing others throughout the day. Bringewood is well known for having one of the greasiest surfaces in the UK when it rains, thanks to an overwhelming amount of clay in the ground, and this weekend was no exception. Coming into first runs, there was an almighty shower that lasted about 40 minutes, meaning that Michael and the rest of the Junior category had some of the toughest conditions of the day. Along with many, Michael struggled to hold it together in his run, losing a lot of time, just trying to keep the bike in a straight line! By the time it got to Expert and Elite first runs however, the sun had been out for well over an hour, and riders were coming across the line pretty clean. John had a less than perfect run, with feet off the pedals moments causing more than one or two issues better off forgotten, but still came down into 8th place, which was pretty good for a bad run. With Olie up next, it was fingers crossed for a good run, and that’s exactly what was delivered, with 1st place all wrapped up, with a healthy margin.
Time for 2nd runs, and with the sun now having been out for 3 hours or so, the track was running fast. Michael put in a solid run, knocking over 7 seconds off his first time, but still with a less than ideal number of mistakes, which left him in 19th. With the weather looking good, and reports of dust on track from other riders, the question of whether to risk it and swap to dry tyres was the one on everyones minds. John decided to make the swap and go for a highroller on the front, leaving the spike on the back. However, no sooner had he made the swap (and with Olie seconds away from switching to dries as well), the heavens opened, and the BBC weather report rang true!! More rain, but only 15 minutes worth this time. What would the track be like?? Well the answer was damp, which left a tyre dilemma.. back to wets or stick with the change. Olie stuck with the spikes (a wise choice), while John stuck with his highroller cut spike combination. Once at the top of the track, things were looking good, the track was still dry in the woods, and the rain holding off…. or was it!! No was the answer, just after setting off, John hit the open section, and surprise, it was raining pretty hard. So after a lot of struggling to stay upright, it was a slightly slower run for John ,leaving him in 9th. Ten minutes later, and Olie would be up, and wow was the rain coming down now! None of the elites managed to better Olie’s first run time, although CRC’s Joe Smith got close, meaning that storming first run had done the business and Olie took the win!!
Thursday, 9 June 2011
Transition Factory Racing: Multiple event update
RELEASE DATE: (6/8/11)
SOURCE: TRANSITION BIKES
Transition Factory Racing: Multiple event update
Plattekill NY-
As many of you know during the Plattekill PRO GRT practice session on Saturday, Bryn Atkinson crashed while riding with the rest of the Transition Racing team and suffered serious injuries. He was lifeflighted from the venue to Albany Medical Center where emergency surgery was performed to repair a broken distal portion of the right Femur, and a broken Ulna in the right elbow. The Team immediately departed the event to follow Bryn to the hospital. Upon arriving they were able to catch Bryn before undergoing surgery. He was in stable condition, but in a great deal of pain. The surgery was successful, and Jill remained at the Hospital to be with him, while Lars and TR expansion team Pro Charlie Sponsel returned to Plattekill to race on Sunday.
Photo credit: Matt Delorme
Lars was able to Salvage a 10th place result which was a small victory in itself. He says "Having been with Bryn during the crash and seeing the aftermath I was pretty shaken up. Thankful to have made it down the hill safely."
A huge thanks from Transition Racing to the staff at Plattekill mtn. for all the support getting Bryn transported to the bird. And all of our racing friends and sponsors at the event who helped us and showed a great deal of support throughout the duration of the trip.
Bryn remained in the hospital for the next 13 days. He was finally cleared to fly home on Thursday the 2nd of June. Jills Mum flew out on the Wed following his injury to take over support, so the team could carry on to the US Open. Thank you Jan!
Vernon NJ-
The team arrived in NJ, and with a few days of decompression were ready to rip. Jill opted not to practice Dh until Saturday when she felt fully ready. Jill and Lars qualified on the giant Slalom course Friday evening. Jill quali'd 1st, and Lars in 4th and were having a blast.
On Saturday the team set out for their qualifying runs, aming to get down the hill with a good time and tires still inflated. Flat tires are always a concern at the US Open being one of the rockiest courses and one of the only events in the states where you have to qualify 50th in men, and 20th in women or better to make it to finals. Jill qualified 1st again, and Lars in 26th.
Saturday evening were the GS finals which consisted of a best of two runs format. Jill set the lead time in both runs and took the decisive Win. Lars was unable to best his qualification position again finishing 4th in the finals.
Photo credit: Matt Delorme
Sunday DH finals- Jill came down first and was immediately crowned the US Open 2011 champion. She had her work set out for her recovering from a long week of standing vigil with Bryn. Next off was Lars, who ended up putting a foot down in the 2nd corner of the course and managed to break his left Fibula and tear ligaments in the ankle. He was taken to Morristown Medical center where surgery was performed to repair the damage. He was released on June 2nd and flew home.
Not enough can be said about Jill Kintner who remained solid as a rock during this time of stress. Jill made the decision to carry the TR torch and carry on to Ft. Bill for the WC round # 2 the following weeend. Which coincidently was to be Jill's World Cup DH debut. Now only flanked by her personal coach Scott Sharples and TR world Cup mechanic Jason Marsh.
You can read more about the story here: http://www.pinkbike.com/news/Transition-Bikes-Team-east-coast-update-2011.html
Ft. William Scotland in Jills words:
Practice - "First day of practice under sunny skies. The track here is a lot of fun, I was really enjoying the speed up top. Throw in some pedaling and we got ourselves one exhausting, rough as guts race track. Took awhile to learn where to go, still sort of getting it down, but yeah, it is only the first day. The new wooded bit has got some issues with drainage and roots, so I think some changes were being made. The approach to that road gap is terrible. It’s not a difficult jump, just uphill and boggy coming in. Bottom is flatter and lots of sprinting. dunno. It’s gonna be brutal to piece together with max effort.
Qualifying- "First full run completed on the course!!! I am loving this track. Had the fastest top split in my run today, which is a small victory. It’s pretty much a rougher looser slalom, and the first minute is kind of my specialty, the other 4 min are what I have trained so hard for!!! Stoked. Got a little balled up in the middle, had to make a quick pass on the rider in front of me coming into the woods, but the 5 faster seeded girls in front of me pulled quite a few seconds there in the middle. 6th is pretty good though. Should be clear tomorrow.
Cool for Gwin to have such a ripper of a run. Think a lot of dudes were surprised how much faster he went than the guys that have won here in the past. Heard a lot of other stories about people flipping over the bars in the swamp section of woods. A big hole formed and sucked in a lot of front wheels, I pulled a one footer in there, garbage. Stoked for Luke Strobel, 10th today and gaining, keeping in real for NW…
It’s been so helpful to have my coach Scotty Sharples here for support, as well as marshy tuning the ol bike.
Miss bryn though:( He would have put the stomp on these guys today. He and Mom finally got on a plane and made it back home to Seattle!!!"
Finals- "I finished 6th today in World Cup Downhill!!
Pretty good, had an awesome time riding and just being here. Didn’t feel too nervous, was just trying to put together something worthy. It’s nice to have goals to strive for again, Downhill is a wild beast full of close calls, speed, skill, fitness, loose moments, etc. Wish there were never any mistakes, but it happens to everyone.
These WC girls ride so well, the pace will keep on challenging me. Tracy Mosley, today’s winner, has raced here since 1997 and won this course 5 times!!! SO she knows what the pace is, but it was still close between her and Rachel Atherton. Sabrina is usually a dominator, but looked a bit off. Pugin was solid as was pom pom.
My run was pretty dialled except for the bit in the woods, it was kindo of a 50/50 section. got it good every other time it seemed. slipped coming into both root bits and stalled out, foot out unclipped for days scootering along trying to get over it and the next uphill bit into the road gap was not stunning either, other than that, put in a good effort. Learning a ton as I go. Just the connecting pedals 1-2 outta berms with power, and linking sections together need some more attention. Maybe some lines too, but this track was pretty straight forward. Got my flow on, and has so much fun!!, so I’m really happy with the weekend!!:) 11 times down the course total.
America is getting back up there in the ranks. Gwin is doing his job, but had an unfortunate crash near the end. Still finished 5th. Brooke McDonald smashed out a ripper of a run for 3rd, and Danny DH hart was amazing. Such a drifter and loose unit. He is running near his potential, bit tidier and he’ll have one of these.
Exciting stuff. Always a huge turnout of fans here. Bus loads pooling in all day!! dirtmag, vital, pinkbike, have the goods.
Flight in the AM to Munich- next week a different beast to tame in Leogang, Austria…Big thanks to Transition, Red BUll, our co-sponsors, Bryn, my Coach Scott sharples, and marshy for wrenching. c ya."
WOMEN
1. T-MO
2. Rachel Atherton
3. Pugin
4. Pom Pom
5. Sabrina Jonnier
6. Jill
7. Ragot
MENS DH
1. Minnaar
2. Danny Hart
3. Brook McDonald
4. Gee
5. Gwin
6. Cam Cole
7. Blenkinsop
Jill is Now in Leogand Austira attending the WC round # 3. Afterwards she will return home to prepare for the next World Cups. Bryn and Lars are remaining at home to heal and recover properly. Keep up to date on all things team related at www.transitionbikes.com
Wednesday, 8 June 2011
Monday, 16 May 2011
KORE equipped Jill Kintner takes PRO GRT win
Transition Factory Racing: Jill takes PRO GRT win, and Lars 7th in mens.
Highland Bike Park, NH-
The Transition Racing crew arrived in NH on Wed evening and hit the venue for setup, a little park riding, and course walk. The course looked to be pretty challenging full of roots, rocks and multiple line choices in many areas. The Highland Park crew did a fantastic job designing the course.
Saturday evening brought the weather the forecast was calling for and before you know it race day arrived with pouring rain. The team qualified really well with Jill in first, and Lars in 5th. After a little break in the racing but not in the rain, it was time for the finals.
Jill came down first and defended her qualifying position, and placed 1st again. This is two victories in a row for Jill who extended her points lear in the series. Next off was Lars who came down a little slower than qualifying and finished 7th overall. The course proved to be a challenge getting slower and slower throughout the day.
Jill commented "I am stoked to get some solid practice in here for the World Cups, and support US racing at the same time!"
Lars said "What a day! The course was pretty hard to guage. There were a lot of places that you were going so slow it felt like you could get off and walk faster. Definitely hard to stay motivated to continue on and charge it. I'm pretty pleased with the outcome. Once again proud of Jill. I could tell I was running a little slower than quali's, pretty stoked with the result though and looking to build on it in the coming weeks"
Photo credit: Matt Delorme
The team is now off to the Pro GRT # 3 at Plattekill Bike park. See you there!
Highland Bike Park, NH-
The Transition Racing crew arrived in NH on Wed evening and hit the venue for setup, a little park riding, and course walk. The course looked to be pretty challenging full of roots, rocks and multiple line choices in many areas. The Highland Park crew did a fantastic job designing the course.
Saturday evening brought the weather the forecast was calling for and before you know it race day arrived with pouring rain. The team qualified really well with Jill in first, and Lars in 5th. After a little break in the racing but not in the rain, it was time for the finals.
Jill came down first and defended her qualifying position, and placed 1st again. This is two victories in a row for Jill who extended her points lear in the series. Next off was Lars who came down a little slower than qualifying and finished 7th overall. The course proved to be a challenge getting slower and slower throughout the day.
Jill commented "I am stoked to get some solid practice in here for the World Cups, and support US racing at the same time!"
Lars said "What a day! The course was pretty hard to guage. There were a lot of places that you were going so slow it felt like you could get off and walk faster. Definitely hard to stay motivated to continue on and charge it. I'm pretty pleased with the outcome. Once again proud of Jill. I could tell I was running a little slower than quali's, pretty stoked with the result though and looking to build on it in the coming weeks"
Photo credit: Matt Delorme
The team is now off to the Pro GRT # 3 at Plattekill Bike park. See you there!
Tuesday, 10 May 2011
Olie Burton World Cup training in San Remo
I have just got back from the Team Abarth MTB road trip in San Remo, Italy. We went to this area in northern Italy mainly because of the quality of the tracks. We were out there as a team to get some time on the bikes and do some testing before the main part of the season kicks off.
I spent the first part of the trip working mainly on bike setup. I tested lots of things from different brakes and handlebars, to springs in my forks and shock. When it got to the middle of the trip I really started to feel comfortable on the bike and was happy how everything was feeling, and from then on I concentrated on going faster, with only small suspension adjustments to help me feel even more confident on the bike.
We were staying in an apartment in the town of San Remo right by the sea. It was a great place to be based as we had easy access to some great road riding along the seafront and it’s very central for all the different downhill tracks. It was also nice to be in the town for the odd meal out and getting supplies.
I met up with one of my good friends, Scott, who was also out there doing some training and he showed us a load more tracks that I didn’t know about, including a new one that Fabien Barel had recently built. It was very fast and rocky but good fun to ride.
Now I’m going to be staying at home for a while. My plan is to try and put in some solid training in preparation for the main part of the World Cup season which is fast approaching. I’m racing round 2 of the Pearce Cycles race series this weekend but my main focus is of course, the World Cup series. I am looking forward to travelling again and getting back into the competitive atmosphere.
Olie uses KORE seats and seatpost on his World Cup quest!
Olie uses KORE seats and seatpost on his World Cup quest!
Tuesday, 26 April 2011
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Thursday, 21 April 2011
Transition Factory Racing: Sea Otter Classic 2011
RELEASE DATE: (4/20/11)
SOURCE: TRANSITION BIKES
Transition Factory Racing: Sea Otter Classic 2011.
Monterey, Ca- The Transition racing squad departed the Pro GRT and after a quick pit stop in Seattle for a thourough cleaning, made their way towards the Sea Ott. After a slalom bike tuning session in Bend the team rolling into Laguna Seca on Thursday am.
The schedule for gravity Professionals seems to be getting slimmer every year, and this year was no exception. One DH practice session on Friday, a full day of Slalom on Saturday, and time for maybe two runs down the DH course before racing on Sunday requires quick assimilation to courses and conditions. The Weather was a treat coming from the wet and cold PNW. The forecast was accurate through the event calling for temps in the 60's and sunny. The team had a successful practice session in the am, then rolled over tothe Fox Racing Shox booth for an autograph signing. These are a great way to connect with the fans and hang out with them for a while.
Saturday was Slalom day. 2 hours of practice in the am rolling straight into qualifying, a three hour break, then finals at 4pm. The crew were all feeling solid and qualified as such. Jill 1st, Bryn 4th and Lars 13th. After a quick break it was time to get to racing. All three riders made it through the first rounds and were warmed up ready for battle. After winning the first lap in the second round, Lars made a couple crucial mistakes which cost him the advantage and was eliminated by RSA's Andrew Neethling. Bryn went on to eliminate Andrew in the nex round, He continued on to face Jared Graves who edged him out, and eventually went on for the win. In the consolation round Bryn had a heated battle with Danny Hart. Bryn ended up 4th place for the day and on the Podium. Jill continued to prove her 1st place qualifying position and consistently sprinted across the line first against each challenger. She did not lose a round, and took the day's victory.
1. Jared Graves 2. Brian Lopes 3. Danny Hart 4 Bryn Atkinson 13. Lars Sternberg
1. Jill Kintner 2. Joanna Peterson 3. Melissa Buhl 4. Eva Castro
Sunday was DH day. The riders all took a few practice runs and Quickly set to work. Jill ran first and came across the line with a time just off the pace and rolled into 2nd place for the day. Lars was next in and came in with a time a few seconds off pace and ended up 17th for the day. Bryn was next can flew in with a time that was good enough to hold up to 4th place overall. All three riders were fairly happy with their race runs, and more importantly were strong and solid through the finish which proves the hard work over the winter is paying off.
1. Jared Graves 2. Andrew Neethling 3. Tyler Immer 4. Bryn Atkinson 5. Eric Carter 17. Lars Sternberg
1. Melissa Buhl 2. Jill Kintner 3. Miranda Miller 4. Cierra Smith 5. Jaime Rees
Bryn is now off to South Africa for the World Cup #1, while Jill and Lars have a few weeks of training at home until the next Pro GRT at Highland Park NH. See you there, thanks for the support!
TRANSITION FACTORY RACING use KORE Torsion bars, Torsion and B52 stems, T rail seat posts, and Torsion saddles.
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