Kris Schamp
For those of you who didn't receive the email I sent out on Friday, here are a few updates about the Portland MTB Short Track Series Grand Finale, tomorrow (Monday) at PIR.
Like in years past, we plan to got with a bang and make this a night you don't want to miss out on. Here are some of the things to look forward to:
1) Team Relay "Ultra Short Track" Race:
Like last year, we will stage an all-for-fun team relay race on the motocross track, after we're done with the regular races. The race line-up will consist of not less than 17 teams of 10 racers, who each will get to race one lap. Since we will only be using the motocross track, the laps will be ultra-short, ultra-fast and ultra-fun to race and/or watch!
2) Zoobomb/Freabike Exhibition Race Redux:
After all the fun we had two weeks ago, we decided to go for an "encore" and invite our zoobomber friends and assorted freakbikers over for another FREE exhibition race for minibikes, tallbikes, chopper bikes, unicycles, and any non-regular bike. The exhibition race will take place on the motocross course at 8pm, right after the pro/expert race and the team relay. While this is a free race, participants have to sign a waiver prior to the race and all racers have to wear a helmet.
3) Kids Bike and Helmet Decoration:
It's going to be a long night, so to keep the little ones entertained we'll have a fun (and free) "kids bike and helmet decoration" activity planned, starting around 8pm. Of course, we will also have another last round of our popular free kiddie races at 5:45pm, under the trees.
4) Series Awards & Raffle:
In good tradition, we will close the night and wrap up the series with awards for the overall top-3 podium finishers in each category and of course our not-to-be-missed Grand Series Raffle, where we'll raffle off a ton of great prizes provided by our sponsors Clif Bar, Chris King, Yakima, Bike N Hike, Cyclepath, Gary Fisher, Roots Organic Brewing, Tazo Tea and Ironclad.
5) Get out there early!
In years past the turn-out at our last night of racing has always been high, with a lot of one-time racers who want to give short track a shot (which you all should do!). If you want to avoid getting stuck waiting in line at registration an missing out on pre-riding the course, we advice you to come out early. We plan to open our registration table at 4:30pm and you can pre-ride the course from 4:30pm to 6pm.
That's about it. The weather forecast for tomorrow looks about perfect (mostly sunny - highs 75 to 80), so come out one more time to PIR to race, to spectate, and to cheer on your team mates. Bring your family and friends. Let's throw a party!
~Kris
www.portlandracing.com
PS: We are still looking for a couple hands to help out from 6:30 to 7:30pm with registration and lap counting. If you are available and interested in helping out, just send me an e-mail.
PS 2: After taking a break for a week, we'll be back next Monday with our free short track clinics for novice women and junior riders, from 5pm to 5:45pm. Major thanks to Sue Butler, Patrick Wilder and all the other riders who made this popular new feature happen this year!