Knightly News From WORS #5 Chippewa Valley Firecracker in Eau Claire, WI on July 10th, 2011

Short, fast with lots of single track is the way the junior riders described the Chippewa Valley Firecracker on July 10^th, 2011.   Comments from a parent who experienced a WORS pre-ride for the first time included: “It was the first time I pre-rode any of their courses.  WOW!  It has given me a whole new perspective of what they do in the WORS races.  The boys say it is one of the easiest and shortest courses in the WORS races, but I thought it was pretty demanding.  I really had to focus so I didn’t run in to any trees or roots, and I wasn’t brave enough to go over the jumps.  I was amazed to see the boys zipping through the woods and flying over logs!”(Source of parent quote unknown unless they are willing to tell you!!).

The Juniors started the day after a early morning heavy shower of rain dropped the humidity and temperature just enough to fool them into a false sense of comfort.  By the time the race started the course was drying but the air was getting heavier and hotter.  Two riders impressed with great improvement again in their riding style and willingness to show that they can dig deep when the anaerobic hurt starts to creep in.  Grant was one rider who impressed by moving his way up to the top half  of the 14 and juniors by finishing 17^th out of 35 kids.  Dylan was slowed by a crash and fought back to finish moments later in 20^th.  These two have really improved since the first races of the year.  Cole didn’t miss a step as he continues to consistently fight for top ten places by fighting back after a crash to finish 8^th.  Alex finished one better in 7^th and Jacob once again was the top team finisher in 4^th place. In the girls race I don’t think there are too many kids who can smile while their heart rate is in the red zone other then Katy.  She was 9^th of 14 kids in the girls 14 and under age group and continues to learn bike handling and shifting skills that will pay off in the races to come.

As the humidity and heat began to get to the uncomfortable level the Citizen 14 and under age group were given the GOOO from Don.  Daniel worked through some slick track conditions and faster older riders approaching from a later wave to finish 10^th out of 15 kids. Another fun day of riding and improvement by all the Scarlet Knight riders!!