August 1, 2004 - INTERVIEW
Name: Bill Ringler
City: Newark
State/Province: De
Country: USA
Age: 46
Place: 1st
Category: Beginner
Class or Age Group: 45-49 M1
Team: Fabulous Furry Freak Brothers
Race Bike: Trek Fuel 100
Tires: Panaracer Fire XC Pro
Conditions: Wet, wet, wet ...
Email: bringler@infosysinc.com
How was your fitness level going into this race?
Good, although I wore 1 extra layer though to offset the rain. As it turned
out, it kept me warmer than I would have liked.
Were you happy with
your position going into the singletrack?
Yes, I was positioned 1st going into the single-track.
Were you strong from start to finish?
I felt great through the first lap and kept 1st place. Half way around
the 2nd lap I started fogging up my glasses. I put them away and almost
immediately, got mud in one eye. Within 50 yards, I had it in both eyes
and had to stop to clear. 30 seconds after stopping, Ed Camelli (running
2nd) passed me and got about 30 yards on me. I attacked through the next
couple hills and regained the lead, and then it was a race to the finish.
When did you put the hammer down?
Once I hit the top of the last hill, I realized my competition was directly
behind me. I tried to stretch it out in the last 300 yards and it was
a good thing, as I slipped out on the last turn for the finish line. After
quickly picking my bike and myself up, I finished 2 seconds ahead of
Ed for the win.
Did you have any unusual problems?
Just keeping my eyesight clear after I dropped my glasses once they fogged
up.
Were you happy with the way the race was run?
It had a few disoriented moments because of the rain, but overall, it was
another good day and another good race.
Did you have any interesting
experiences during your race (exchanges with competitors/spectators)?
It's always great racing with the Master 1 group. Many of us are becoming
friends and looking forward to each race. It was interactive, before during
and after the race.
Anything you would like to add?
Bring on the SUN for Fair Hill!