Kris Schamp

Monday's short track race #3 was another big hitter: nice weather (the summer breeze helped keeping the temps in check), a record 227 race entries, and another wicked-fun (though sligthly more challenging) course. Thanks everyone who came out and joined in on the fun and welcome to the 30+ new racers!

Preliminary results are posted at: http://www.portlandracing.com/results.html

Scott Barker whipped up another sweet video compilation, featuring some great footage of pro rider Molly Cameron, who made her 2007 MTB debut in grand style, powering away from the rest of the Pro field to take her very first Portland MTB Short Track win ever. Since Molly has been a very consistent finisher in last year's series (2nd overall in the Pro Men, behind "Mr. Short Track" Shannon Skerritt), we hope to see some sparks in the three remaining races. Anyway, check out Scott's latest video at:
http://www.portlandracing.com/video-07-09-2007.html

Finally, some trivia from the mundo bizarro of singlespeed racing:

John Golden - in his very first short track season - has been racing each week on a BMX bike - not just once, but twice each night (racing the Beginner and Singlespeed race back-to-back)! You can see him briefly in Scott's video, right before he blew up his front tire coming down from some big air jump on the motocross track. Instead of throwing in the towel, John decided it would be more fun to run the remaining two laps while carrying his BMX (hey, there is one advantage of having a small bike). Check him out at http://tinyurl.com/3am3kx . John, I think we owe you a 6-pack of Pyramid Thunderhead IPA!

Another tough-as-nails guy who put on a show yesterday, was Bike Gallery rider Andy McKerrow. Just one day after he rode (and finished) the grueling Cream Puff, Andi decided the singlespeed race would make for a great recovery ride. After an average start (coming through in 9th), Andy pulled some daring tricks to fight his way up the ranks and ended up taking his first short track win of the season. Great job Andy!
Here is a shot of Andy in action: http://tinyurl.com/39xd6r

Finally, check out the race outfit sported by River City Bicycles rider Colin Maier: http://tinyurl.com/34w928 . I guess that's what you happen to race in when your work shift ends just 20' before your race.

Everyone stay cool and hope to see you next week!

~Kris

www.portlandracing.com