Event: Fair Hill Classic

Name: George Bressler

City: Etters

State/Province: PA

Country: USA

Age: 46

Place: 1st

Category: Sport

CLASS +/or Age group: Master One

Team: Cycle Works

XC Race Bike: Cannondale Scalpel

Tires: Michelin/Kenda

Conditions: Wet

Email: B1benben@CS.com

How was your fitness level going into this race?

Very Good- I was feeling a little burnt after the 24hrs of Snowshoe so I took it easy for a week & now feel great.

Were you happy with your position going into the singletrack?

Yes- after the big drag race down the road, over the bridge & onto the dirt road I snuck into first; then it was extreme heat from behind all the way to the first climb. It was somewhat bottlenecked so I had to run it but didn't hear anyone after that.

Were you strong from start to finish?

At about mile 15 I was feeling not tired- just lagging a little- so I did a hammergel & BOOM- back in business.

When did you put the hammer down?

AS always- at the start.

Did you have any unusual problems?

The bottom two cogs on my cassette were skipping (due to passing in the weeds)- other than that the bike worked perfectly.

Were you happy with the way the race was run?

How can you not love a club that has a kid's race? I had always heard Fair Hill was a true classic- now I see why. I was wondering about their decision to run in the rain but the trails were great! Turns out they knew what they were doing all along. The people who turned around & went home don't know what they missed.

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

At approx. the halfway point I heard this horrible screeching thru the woods; the worst brake noise I have ever heard. I made it my life's mission to catch & pass that rider. He was WAY ahead but I kept banging away & got by him as he walked a climb. Those brakes sounded much better as the sound faded behind me. It was just a dumb little game I played with myself but it still felt great to pull it off.

Anything you would like to add?

I saw Bill D had some deal going on over in the corner of the hall-- pictures I think- I didn't get over to see it & I hope he has it set up at Granogue. Other than that just a BIG thanks to the Delaware Trail Spinners for a great event (and not being afraid of a little rain!) & as always Bushey's Cycling & Fitness in Lemoyne Pa. for their fantastic support.