WORS#9 Reforestation Ramble - Andy

Green Bay, WI (Suamico)
Sunday August 22, 2010
by: Andrew Schirpke

The longest WORS race has the shortest report.  The race is a short drive away about 2 hours. The plan was to head up early but reports were saying no pre-ride till 3pm. So we left at noon. Checked in our room, which was too nice for 3 MTBerz.
Headed to the course. Registered and got our trail passes. Headed out with my Dad, Travis, Shane and Jeremy…Maja hooked up half way through. First couple miles had a lot of low spots and the trail got better as we gained some altitude. 12 mile single loop ran backwards from past years. It changed things up, the stumps were all still there. One was enough and we headed back to clean up.
After a quick shower we went to Josephine’s for Pizza. Then I hit a few balls at the driving range. Moving deer targets, don’t worry they’re safe. A run in with a guy that has blue and red lights. It turned out ok. Back to the hotel for some swimming and sleeping by 11. Had to see how River Monsters turned out.
Up around seven and had a great breakfast. Equipment check and we loaded up. The lot fills up fast but we got a good spot. Debated the water and decided to carry a bottle. Watched the JR’s start and then some light warm up.
Got a call-up and a good spot. Picked the wrong gear so I lost a few spots early. This is a long race so I wasn’t that worried. Then I hit some hills. My rear shifter was still broke from the Ore to Shore. I couldn’t believe it didn’t fix itself. I struggled up most hills and had to run a few. Never lost or gained after the first mile. The shifters didn’t matter in the singletrack and I burned that up. I had a good pace but never could make up for the gearing. Fifth place finish and I hope it helps me keep my call up.
Waited for my dad to check if he needed water and cheered for all my friends. In the mountain biking world that’s a lot of cheering. Everyone who uses two wheels is your friend. Weather was great and the track was fast. Good Day.
Packed up quick and headed home. Another guy’s weekend and the last long one till Shawano. Local ones for awhile. See everyone at Alterra!

Andy