Painful Weekend - Yet Fun?

Plenty of mountain bike action this weekend - dare I say - maybe a tad too much. Nah, that's almost impossible...

Saturday, Ian and I headed out with two of his schoolmates, Kellen and Austin. Nice kids, nice families. We've never ridden together, but we've talked about it a few times, now it was a go. Kellen's dad, Tate, also joined in for the ride. Austin had his mom drop him off for the festivities. His dad was interested as well, but had other commitments.

Added to the gang was old mountain bike pal Tony. Been years since we've ridden together, Tony now with a new Kona and a renewed interest in hitting the trails.

Our neighborhood trails of St Ed/Big Finn Hill the place to cruise, we all left from my driveway, just a mile buzz on pavement before singletrack awaits. Kellen and Austin have a little singletrack experience, but don't hit trails often. Ian plays ride leader with Kellen right behind him. Austin ahead of me - he's doing fine - I yell out the occasional advice and encouragement. Tate is rocking the 700c hybrid bike without a problem, and Tony gets a few more miles on the new Kona.

All is rolling swimmingly, as they say at the country club, when Austin grabs too much front brake on a short downhill. I watch helplessly as he endos hard into ground right in front of me. I'm off my bike and by his side in a seconds. He's not getting up too quick...

After sitting him up and catching his breath, we check for damage. Slight cut on his mouth, no big deal there - however - said his wrist hurt. A lot. Gut tells me broken wrist, though hoped I was wrong. Said he can't ride with the hurt wrist. Time for Plan B.

Cell phone call to his mom to pick him up nearby. Short walk out of the woods, me pushing both bikes. Understanding mom loads him into SUV for doctor visit. Phone call later confirmed fractured wrist. Ouch. Four to six weeks in a cast. Perfect summer accessory.

Ride was very tame and suited to the slowest rider. I'm always super cautious riding with kids, especially newer riders. Still, I felt bad about the situation. First time I've had someone hurt riding with Ian and I, as a group. We're still talking about riding a bicycle on trails, so there is some element of risk. Stuff is eventually going to happen. Feel bad it occurred on my call.

I saw both parents later that night to return Austin's cell phone. No guilt required. Austin mentioned having a good time up until the crash. He was busy showing off his cast to the neighborhood, as 12 year old boys are apt to do. Once healed, I'd like to ride with him again - assuming he'd want to. Austin's dad is Ian's basketball coach, so I'll see him again once school starts. As mentioned, very nice family. First time I take their kid out, send him home with a broken wrist. Yikes.

Kellen rolls one of the jumps at Big Finn Hill. He and his dad appeared to have a fun afternoon. After the ride - and getting Austin off to the doctor after the, uh, mishap - we rode our bikes over to the local pizza place on the way home. A shared pizza was a great way to end the ride.

Austin in action, prior to the wrist tweaking endo. I really enjoy getting people out there, especially kids. I hope to ride with Austin again.

Ian plays ride leader. For 12 years old, already has a lot of riding and racing experience. When we take out "regular" kids, gives him some leadership experience, as well as shining a bit skill wise. All good life experiences.

After the Saturday morning ride, Ian wound up playing and riding around with friends all afternoon. By the end of the day, clocked 20+ miles on his speedo. In addition, didn't hit the sack until midnight. I finally went to bed around 1:00 AM. Not exactly the proper set up for the following day planned activity - mountain bike race at Lake Padden in Bellingham. Wife and daughter Amy even planned to trek up there with us. I preloaded the car, including rearranging the roof rack to fit four bikes.

Alarm goes off way too early on Sunday morning, snooze button being my best friend. Soon, human alarm named Ian is standing bedside, asking if we're going. Huh, yawn - yeah, let's roll. Female half of the clan elect to skip the race at the last minute, giving me the opportunity to unload/reload the roof rack of bikes once again. Much joy and fun.

Finally, Ian and I are off. Event being about a 90 minute drive up north. The Padden Mountain Pedal is a Northwest classic, running close to 20 years now. Held at the Lake Padden Recreation Area, right outside Bellingham, Washington. Nice race site with lake, grassy areas, playground - and more importantly - killer singletrack. Course has short steep climbs, along with fairly sketchy root filled descents. All covered with slippery dust. It's a real XC course - no doubt.

While signing Ian up for the Boys Beginner 11-14 class, I decide to sign on for Beginner Men 45+ class. Both classes scheduled for three laps on the short course. When I race (rarely now), I usually get my ass kicked in the Sport class, so no real shame racing the Beginner class for a change. As I've joked before, I have the racer mentality, but not the ability - so little chance of me grabbing a winning slot anyway.

Since the Beginner classes run together, thought it would be fun to see Ian out on the course at the same time. Plus, no waiting around for me later in the day racing Sport. That was the plan anyway. With race numbers pinned on, we hit the course for a pre-ride lap to remind ourselves where the sketchy downhill sections were located. Ian has raced here twice before, though we skipped last year. I raced this event once a few years ago, complete with nice crash that left me off the bike for three weeks. That story for another time.

Our pre-ride of the course takes longer then planned, with me missing my start by a few minutes. Very dumb mistake, first time ever for that. Ian just makes his race start by seconds, while I take off after the 45+ class - now long gone. I yell a quick "Good luck" to Ian as I pedal away.

I settle into the pain that is racing, my slow pace reminding me why I suck at this - yet it's still a gas. None of my "training" really is race oriented. Lots of riding, but no intervals, and I tend to ride not hard enough, or easy enough at times to recover. On top of that, I have no natural ability for this. If ever tested, my aerobic threshold probably would fall somewhere between a potted plant and a shivering Chihuahua. I can picture white coated lab dude telling me, "Frankly, we're amazed you can even propel a bicycle..."

Me, looking pro and going slow. Well, more like sorta pro and going really slow.

The course has no long climbs, but the few steep sections add up - two of 'em require pushing - at least for me. Tight, twisty, uphill singletrack, complete with rocks 'n' roots. I'm also riding the downhills like a total squid, carrying my bike and running (more like sliding) down the tricky sections. On the last lap, I finally ride everything, minus one section - a small, but lame victory. On a play ride, I could easily clean these sections. Bombing 'em at race speeds, heart rate cranked, changes the picture entirely.

Three laps completed, I cross the finish line. Only five racers in Beginner 45+, with me coming 5th, and a long way back to boot. My few minute late start really didn't effect anything. An all around lame race for me, when you look at the results. Even so, I still feel a sense of satisfaction after finishing. Only racing will force you to push yourself to that pain level. The encouragement from fellow racers, along with the smattering of spectators is always super cool.

From my completely crappy result - in the Beginner class for crying out loud - I should hang my head in shame and maybe take up knitting. Instead, I vow to race again and return to my usual back of the pack Sport class finish. Yes, I guess I'm sick. I also look at this way - how many 50 year old guys are racing mountain bikes? Compared to the general population, can't be many. For just plain having fun, pushing yourself, health benefits, being part of the scene, and getting outside - can't be beat - no matter what place you come in. That's my take on it anyway.

Shortly after my finish, Ian rolls across the line to much clapping. Kids always score some extra encouragement, and rightfully so. Ian also experienced a tough day, said he was really tired, but glad he raced. I'm sure the busy previous week didn't help him. He's been riding so strong lately, didn't think it would matter much - not the case. Out of five kids in his class, finished in 5th place, way off the back. Like father, like son - for today - his racing future is much brighter then mine.

This is also not one of Ian's favorite courses, even though he once grabbed a third place at this event. Still, a solid ride. Three laps around this course for a 12 year old is still pretty commendable. Plus add in the pre-race lap, some of it fast to catch the start time. I'm proud of him.

Since I raced myself, not many pictures today. Here's one of the Sport classes heading towards their bikes in the LeMans style start. Old mountain bike pal, Art, grabbed 3rd place in the Sport 45+ class, despite not racing for years. He also did it in SPD sandals. The dude has a ton of natural talent. The bastard...

Ian looking a little toasted at the finish. Tough ride, despite the listed results. Not shabby at all for 12 years old, mountain bike racing ain't easy, no matter what the age.

Looking a little better after a few tacos courtesy of onsite food truck. I scored a killer Torta sandwich to refuel myself (burp). Also shared the meal with a few other racers we met - plan to meet for a future ride together. Very cool.

This now concludes the weekend report. Tune in next time for more race, ride, and general tales of suffering and related fun on two wheels. Tacos included.

Oh yeah, forgot to mention. While loading the bikes on the roof rack for the drive home - pegged myself in the forehead with a SPD pedal - resulting with a bloody goose egg. Flat out awesome. Man, racing rocks...

The Indie Series Begins - 2011 Style

Today kicked off the 2011 Indie Series. A great series of races in the Pacific Northwest, with results combined for overall winners in various classes. It also forces you to hopscotch around Washington State to sample various courses and riding areas. Each event a mini adventure for us. Ian, just coming off the Budu Series, was looking forward to this.

The Indie Series has sentimental value to me. This series is what introduced Ian to racing back in 2008 at the age of 9. He completed the series and finished 3rd overall for kids 10 and under. A fantastic experience for both of us.

Ian, circa 2008, first Indie Series. He's rocking the 24" wheel Specialized. That's me following behind, as was the practice back then. Fun memories.

Repeat for 2009; another great experience and 2nd overall in the 10 and under class. Ian may not be the fastest racer at times, but he doesn't give up and once he starts a series, wants to complete the whole deal. He does well via consistency and watching his series points accumulate. And in the end, a valuable life lesson. True?

Ian, circa 2009, second Indie Series under his belt. He's holding his "Young Rider of The Year Award" given to him at the series final. It currently hangs in his room. Pretty cool, eh?

2010 rolls around and we're psyched for the new season, with new bike build up included. 2010 was also the year Ian wanted to try Little League baseball. Fair enough, let's give it a go. With multiple practices and games per week - all new to us - baseball wound up taking up most of our free time. The Indie Series was also in transition, with just a few races scheduled. So, not much mountain bike racing action last year. This year Ian elected to skip baseball and focus on racing his bike. Yabba Dabba Do.

Ian, circa 2010, at bat. We spent a lot more time around ball fields then woods that year. Not a bad experience, but not as much fun as riding bikes. Agree?

With that long winded intro, the 2011 Indie Series officially starts. Number of races down a bit from previous years, but with new events on the horizon. Kick off was at Dry Hill in Port Angeles, located on the Olympic Peninsula, a very scenic area of Washington. Rural, huge mountains and water views.

Race put on by the Olympic Dirt Society at Dry Hill. This area known for their downhill race series. What goes down must go up, so an XC race on this terrain required some climbing. Race description mentioned an 8 mile lap with 1200+ feet of elevation gain. Ian scheduled to do one lap for his class, Boys 11 - 14. I was scheduled to be head driver, mechanic, coach and main money source.

After another 4:00 AM wake up call, a three hour drive, unload and get him registered and warmed up, Ian is on the line ready to roll. At the last minute, I suit up and decide to ride behind Ian's class to get a taste of the course and some riding time myself - without actually racing. Lame I am. I considered racing 45+ Beginner or Sport - then came to my senses...

Off they go, with me casually filing behind about 15 seconds later. Course immediately starts climbing up a dirt road. No warm up, old me, instantly into semi-hurt mode, watching kids pull away. These little buggers are pretty fast. I see Ian hanging on to the end of the group, in his usual out of the saddle climbing style. After all our rides together, I'd recognize it from a mile away.

I catch up and fall behind though the first half of he race, enjoying my first row (yet painful) seat to the action. This is a tough course - much climbing - on dirt roads and singletrack. I'm amazed how strong some of these kids can ride, Ian included. We're a world away from following a 9 year old Ian during first race series, not all that long ago.

Eventually on one climb, Ian cracks and walks part of it, losing the remainder of his group. I catch up and he's pretty toasted - but will finish. We walk and ride various sections together. Ian losing me at times, especially on the short downhill sections. I'm not exactly moving at my (alleged) race speed, but certainly moving at a fast clip. Racer bike fan me is impressed. Parent me is proud and slightly nervous. As they grow, the faster they get and the risks go up.

Last climb of the course - dirt road - really steep. Walked by toasted Ian, and me for some company (and relief). From info at the start, we know the remaining 2.5 miles is a technical, singletrack downhill. I tell Ian to relax, get his thoughts together, give it a go. He's off a few seconds before me, I never saw him again until the finish.

The downhill was very technical - super steep, roots, loose rock, muddy, tight switchbacks - the real deal. Certainly one of the most technical downhills Ian has ever ridden. I worked my way down, arm pump and hurting hands included, hoping not to find Ian crumbled in a heap.

Not the case, he did extremely well; plus, maybe his 10th ride on clipless pedals. I was glad to see him waiting at the finish. We talked about the downhill for a few minutes - a shared experience for sure. Challenging and fun for both of us. I don't know any other way to get that post mountain bike ride buzzed feeling. If you know, and it's legal, pass it on...

Ian's speedo only clocked 7 miles or so. The course also felt like way more then the advertised 1200+ elevation gain. This was the full on old school hard core XC course. Tough climbs and tricky descent. Fun, but plenty hard. Taking this for several laps at (adult) race speeds would ratchet up the pain factor many notches. For an 11 year old, one lap was plenty.

So, final tally: 6th place out of six kids in his class. Technically last place. Still a hard won result in my book and series points included. I think he did great - but hey - I'm biased. As we were walking up a section of the course, I mentioned that he's basically doing these races with little to no training and still does okay. We'll try to work in some midweek rides, not easy at times with work, homework and the usual routine. Summer is almost here and no school requirement will help.

While we changed and loaded up for the drive home, he was asking when the next race was. Considering the effort put out and the resulting 6th place, pretty cool to hear. Ian obviously digs this whole scene. Following him for this race was huge fun, something I used to do when he was younger. No need to really follow him anymore, glad I squeezed this one in.

I left the camera in the car all day, so just grabbed this award winning shot of the parking lot as we left. Spectacular, I know. Feel free to download and frame as needed. Makes an excellent gift. Call now, operators are standing by.

The goofy ass '94 Camry wagon I picked up months ago has been working great. Boring to drive, but chock full of room for bike crap. Can even fit seven people with rear jump seat. Here it awaits the ferry ride home, much to envious looks of fellow motorists...

Ian passed out waiting for the ferry. Getting up at 4:00 AM, racing your bike, and driving for many hours will do that - to an 11 year old - and adults as well. He slept for hours on the return trip, including a half hour in the driveway. Yup, he was officially worn out.

Muddy bikes on the roof rack is always a good sign.

That's all for now. Another race and report in the record books. More races, poor photography and related sappy stories to follow. Time for me to finally get some sleep...

Race Series Update - Is It Spring Yet?

Spring has sort of arrived in the great Pacific Northwest. If you consider a few weeks of windy 40 - 50 degree temps, sprinkled with occasional showers - then yes, spring is here.

I've ramped up my riding a bit, to about 130 road miles a week, plus a weekend mountain bike ride thrown into the mix. I usually bike commute a few days a week, but now forced to at times, due to being a one car family. I always thought we could survive with one car if needed and the past few weeks have proven that true. We're still on the lookout for a used car however, but no rush. I also have someone interested in buying my blown up SE-R, which is better then sending it to the crusher (or me fixing it). The dude who wants it already has one SE-R heavily modified for autocross and track use. Would be cool if he restored mine to full use once again.

To kill the need for a second car even more, I always crank up the riding in May due to the Commuter Challenge. Monday is the kick off and my team at work is ready. Pretty strong team this year (once again) and I think we'll take our company commuting crown. We'll see. It's all for fun, bragging rights, and a ploy to get people bike commuting. A good scene.

I had a few interesting commutes last week, due to a late work schedule - one day unplanned, with my lights left at home. Had to break out the emergency light, little AA battery powered deal that I keep in my messenger bag. Barely enough light to see down sections of the very dark Burke-Gilman Trail. It wound up being kind of a fun 17 mile ride home. Full moon, empty trail, overriding the wimpy beam of light, felt like flying a bit. In a sense I was flying - flying blind. I've been on this trail literally hundreds of times, so not that big of a deal. At least it was memorable.

Month of May also kicks off the local Indie Series mountain bike race series, something Ian and I enjoyed the last two seasons. This usually kicks off in April, however the series has been cut from 8 races to just 4 events. The easier, and closer, races were cut - the races best suited for 10 year old Ian. Kind of a bummer, though we'll probably still hit some of the events this year. Ian has also been tied up in the crazy little league schedule (first year for him), killing much of our free time. He's barely been on his bike this spring. He's still interested however, which is cool, plus he's looking forward to spending more time on his new ride.

MFG Cyclocross, another local race series, has announced their fall 'cross schedule and we're looking forward to that as well. Ian and I hit two of their races last fall and had a blast. Huge fun. We'll be back for sure.

With that, I now conclude this rambling post of dubious info. Ride on. Ride often.

Indie Series Race # 8. The Final Countdown.

Yesterday was the final race for this year's Indie Series - this race located near Greenwater, Washington - the foothills of Mount Rainier.  Early morning wake up call for Ian's 9:00 AM race time.  He was up and ready to roll at 5:00 AM (ouch).  We both enjoyed this race last year and were looking forward to hitting the course again - our favorite course of last year's series.

Arrived with just enough time to unload the bikes, pick up race number - and fix a flat on my bike - must have punctured from our previous day's ride at St Eds.  Ian wanted an easy practice ride before the race. He's still getting used to using a CamelBack to carry water, instead of the usual water bottle set up.  We assumed the race course would be the same as last year, but some fellow racers informed us the Beginner loop is much shorter - with no long climb.  Ian was actually looking forward to the climb and following downhill.  Oh well, racing is racing - let's just go for it.

Only two kids in Ian's class today.  Ian and Scott - who was leading the series.  I rode behind Ian during his race for probably the last time. As usual, the Beginner Class adult men and women left first, followed by the juniors - all age groups.  The course was flat, but bumpy with roots and rocks, all singletrack.  It was short and over in no time, around 4 miles or so.  Kids could have easily handled two laps with no problem.  Most of the kids in the series at this point are regulars and have some experience.  However, for kids under 10 years old and just starting to race - this would be a good length.  In any case, it's still a race and you're supposed to go fast, no matter what the distance.  It's all good.

A few pictures from the day......

Scenic race location.  Camping available and killer trails nearby. Mental note to come back for a weekend of riding and camping. Views blocked by low level clouds.  Chilly temps, but no rain.  Great racing weather.

Podiums make great lunch spots - as kid racers demonstrate.

Sport class racers kick up some dust as they head towards the woods.

Spotted this weird rig and talked to the owner.  I've read a thousand bike magazine since '84 and didn't recognize this at all.  Owner dude said it's built in England, I don't remember by who.  Interesting front suspension design, similar to a current BMW motorcycle set up.  I don't know how old this rig is, but reminds me of the early suspension days of the '90s, when all types of designs were tried.  Owner said the front suspension works well and is super stable - no brake squat - keeps the same geometry at all times.  Interesting stuff.

Another wave of Sport class riders peg their heart rate monitors.

Ian received the "Outstanding Young Rider" award for the series. Super cool.  Lisa Miller, part of the Indie Series crew, presented the award and recounted seeing Ian during the mud bath of Race # 1, racing in mud encrusted jeans with a smile on his face.  Ian was surprised and I know he dug getting this.  Great stuff for a 10 year old.

Group of kids we've seen at a bunch of Indie Series events.  Great little racers and the future of this sport.  I've mentioned this before - there should be way more kids involved with mountain bike racing and cycling in general.  There's a few hundred adults at each race and only a handful of kids.  The U.S. just doesn't have the youth cycling culture that exists in other countries.  Huge kudos to the Indie Series folks for running classes for younger kids, free of charge and giving them a spotlight to race.  Thanks.

Kid on the left, Scott Funston, has won every race of the series and the overall title for Beginner Boys 10 and under.  Very fast 9 year old, who races BMX and cyclo-cross as well.  We've gotten to know him and his dad a bit during the series.  Super nice folks and fellow bike nuts.

Hannah, in the center, scored 1st place overall for girls 10 and under. If this sport could use something - it's more girls involved.  Nice job.

For the final race, only two kids in Ian's class, so he scored a 2nd place for the day.  Scott takes 1st place once again.  For the overall series, Ian finished 2nd and Scott was number 1.  Noah scored 3rd for the series and for some reason didn't race this day.  Congratulations to all.  Nice work for young mountain bike racers.

Yeah - not a bad day, huh?  Medal for 2nd place in the race, another medal for 2nd place for the series - plus special award.  Very, very cool and a great experience.  Oh yeah - forgot to mention the official Ragnarok Racing cowbell, water bottle full of goodies, pair of Indie Series socks, and a free hamburger for all racers.  Nice.

That concludes the Indie Series for another year.  Ian said he'd like to continue next year and I'll support him as needed.  Things bump up a bit for the 11-14 Beginner class.  He'll be one of the younger kids for the class, the distances are farther and no dads trailing behind.  I'm sure he'll do fine and have a blast as well.  Without following him during his races, maybe Dear Old Dad (that be me) can finally get some races in himself.

Once again - thanks to all the Indie Series folks for keeping this together.  Putting on races takes a ton of time and effort and is appreciated.  Without people taking the time to organize this, there would be no stage for racers to compete on.  And face it, nobody is doing this for the money - it's all about the love of the sport.

We'll see you next year.....

Indie Series Race # 7. Hot Enough for You?

The Indie Series rolled on today to race number 7 of the series, this time in Roslyn, Washington.  Roslyn had it's 15 minutes of fame back in the 90's as the fictional town of Cicely, Alaska - where the the TV series Northern Exposure was filmed.  The Hollywood types have long left, leaving the small town back to its roots.

Until today, I didn't know about the great trails they have - right out of downtown - where the race site was.  Makes you wonder how cool it would be to live with a set up like that - nice.

Ian and I were looking forward to this event.  His 9:00 AM race time required us to get up stupid early for the 1.5 hour drive over the pass. Weather reports predicted close to 90 degrees today, so the early start was a good thing.  We arrived with enough time for a stress free sign up and look around.  Race promoter, Dan (never got his last name) gave us some early info - this is a tough course, the toughest of the series in his opinion - due to the steep singletrack climbs.  

Course was a 4.5 mile lap, with 1 lap for Ian's class.  A good call, I think 2 laps would have turned this into a death march for the kids. Adults did 2 - 4 laps per race, depending on class. 

Before the race, I fitted a 3 cm longer stem to Ian's bike, raised the seatpost to full max, and slid the seat back on the rails.  It fits him better - but he'll need a small frame 26" wheel bike soon.  This 24" wheel Specialized has been great for him.  Well worth the dough.

As noted in my HeadShokectomy post, I swapped the blown out HeadShok for a Fox fork a few days ago.  All was cool, until I realized the fork doesn't clear the frame.  What a hassle.  For the race, fitted a rubber boot cut from an inner tube to protect the downtube.  At the race, Diamond Back had a bike demo - Diamond Back Dude mentioned a taller fork crown race, to move the fork down 5 mm to clear the frame.  I'll look into it.

Sport class racers head for the woods.  A short, super steep climb strung people out right after the start.  It was a tough, but fun course - almost all singletrack.  The heat added to the "fun". 

Another wave of Sport racers ignore lonely garbage can.  I am the master photographer.  I'm actually under the registration tarp, borrowing some shade - felt like 100 degrees out - no motivation to wander course for pictures.

Ian's race was earlier and beat some of the heat.  Here he pushes up yet another steep hill, passing Aaron (I think that was his name) who's racing in the 11-14 year old Beginner class.  He later passed Ian back and was gone for good.

I followed Ian around the course as I have throughout the series.  He was hating life early in the race, but continued at a slow pace.  He felt better after the climbs ended and had a great time on the descent back to town.  Range of emotions go from "I want to quit" to "That was fun, when is the next race"?  I give Ian and the other kids a lot of credit.  Mountain bike racing is not easy.

After the race, Ian was toasted from the hills and heat - wolfs down peanut butter and jelly sandwich in dirty gloves. Yeah - he's hungry.

To the victor go the spoils - or something like that.  Well, winners medals and cans of Monster Energy drink (perfect for small children). Kid on the left, Scott Funston won the race, while Ian in came in 2nd place.  They were the only two kids in the Boys 10 and Under Beginner class signed up for today.

The Scott kid is fast, wins every race he enters and currently in 1st place for the series.  Ian has now moved into 2nd place for the series by being Mr. Consistent.  Nice going for all.

Overall, a well run race.  The entire Indie Series rocks.  Last event is August 8th in Greenwater, down by Mount Rainier - our favorite course of the series.  This could be the last time I ride with Ian during his race.  If he continues racing next year, the 11-14 age group steps things up a bit, in course length and other aspects.

I'll enjoy it while I can.....

Indie Series Race # 6. Is this July?

Race # 6 of the Indie Series today at Lake Padden in Bellingham, Washington.  This is one of the longest, if not the longest, continuos running mountain bike race in the Pacific Northwest - this year is the 17th edition.  That's a lot of years and for a good reason - great trails and location.  Lake Padden is a sweet park that includes a nice sized lake, trails to hike and ride, dog area and playground.  Looks like a popular place for nearby folk.  It's about an 1.5 hour drive for us, not exactly around the corner.

We missed race # 4 due to a schedule conflict and race # 5 due to the Funhouse Festivities.  Looking at the results afterwards, if Ian had just entered and finished both races - he'd be in 1st place overall for the series.  He's currently in 3rd place for his class - really cool for him.

Yesterday the weather was 80+ degrees and sunny, officially hot for around here.  Today, woke up to cool temps and rain.  With the rainy weather, the female half of the Dan O Clan - wife and daughter, decided to stay home.  Ian and I plowed ahead, who cares about a little rain?  We're talking about mountain bike racing, weather adds to the fun.  With half the clan voting to sleep in, I did get the pleasure of de-loading the larger family hauler, then re-loading all into my car - in the rain.  That doesn't add to the fun.

By the time we hit Bellingham, rain had stopped - replaced with a cold wind and occasional sprinkle.  Strangely cold for July or maybe normal for Bellingham.  Great racing weather, but not so comfy hanging around race course weather.  Still, a pretty good sized crowd milling about and racing.

Ian did battle in the Beginner Boys 10 and Under Class once again.  I followed behind to watch and offer assistance if needed.  The Lake Padden event gets a larger kid crowd then most races, which is cool and a bit strange, since this course is pretty tough for kids.  Lots of pushing up steep singletrack and walking, sliding, crashing bikes down steep singletrack.  There was about 10 kids in Ian's class and he finished in 3rd place - a great showing.  This is not his favorite course. A bit of grumbling, two small crashes - one riding, one walking bike down a hairy section - one thrown chain added to challenge.  He did put a mad sprint in at the end, that was fun to watch.  The 3rd place finish also cheered him up.

I've been riding a lot and was looking forward to racing myself in the 45+ Sport class.  Was not to be - with mom and sis at home, and no one we know at the race, meaning Ian wandering around for 2 hours alone - while I thrash myself in the woods.  I'm sure he'd be fine, but that would be on my mind while racing.  I also thought we'd head home after his race to shorten the day.  We wound up waiting around for the 5:00 PM awards, since Ian scored the 3rd place.  I should have just raced, even Ian said so.  Being a responsible parent wins out over racing.  I'll get something in before the season ends.  I hope.

To kill some time in the afternoon, we cruised a few trails and watched the Expert and Open classes race - the officially fast folks.  Not a bad afternoon at all.

A few pictures.....

The actual Lake Padden.

Unknown Racer (says so right on his jersey) wonders how traffic cones grow in the woods.

LeMans style start for most classes.  Others had standard start with a $25 prime for the holeshot.  Great idea with potential pile up viewing for spectators - that never happened.

Spotted this dude on old school, Tomac style Yeti - complete with drop bars.  Cool bike and colorful rider.  Later, saw him ride on a flat during his race - to his car to repair - then rejoin the race.  Admirable, but maybe carrying a spare tube would be easier - no?

First carbon hardtail Ibis Tranny I've seen for real.  This one set up as super sano single speed.

A few Expert class racers blur the woods with speed.

Ian eyes up the future competition.  With the cloud cover, it was incredibly dark in the woods.

Ian's patented monkey imitation.

Our bikes rest in the woods, illuminated by flash.  Yup, it's dark in there.

Ian on the podium for 3rd place.  Kids who scored 1st and 2nd place nowhere to be found - probably bailed hours earlier - we waited (and waited....and waited).  Smiles on people in background from Ian falling off wet, slippery podium - directly on his butt.  He jumped right up with arms raised TDF style salute.  Pretty funny and he took it well.

The race winnings proudly displayed.  T-shirt, water bottle, blinky light, and.....

Dog tag medal for 3rd place.

See?  We don't make any of this up - official proof.

After the festivities were over, loaded up the car and hit I-5 South towards home.  After getting up insanely early, racing and being outside all day - Ian passed out in the car and woke up as I pulled in the driveway.  I then got to unload the car (again) in the pouring rain. Joy.  I'm not complaining.  I'm sure Ian and I will remember this stuff years down the road.

Next stop on the Indie Series is Roslyn.  We've never ridden there and we're looking forward to it.  Let's add a few more memories to the mix.