- Currently 4.5/5 Stars.
- 1
- 2
- 3
- 4
- 5
Offline 
47 Votes / 29,901 Views |
|
|
|
|
at the track.
|
|
Cup. See you at the track.
|
|
|
|
When last I reported on ‘The Hurricane’s’ racing exploits, we had just returned from the ABA Fall Nationals/Disney Cup in Kissimmee, FL October 17-19. Well ‘The Hurricane’ has done a lot of racing since our last update. In the seven months since, ‘The Hurricane’ has raced numerous times. I will quickly summarize the action that brought us to this past weekend.
In November of 2008, ‘The Hurricane’ & I traveled to Morristown , TN for the NBL Thanksgiving Nationals. This was ‘The Hurricane’s’ first NBL National Race. He did well coming away with a 7th Place finish on Saturday and improved one spot to 6th on Sunday. December and January represent a bit of a lull in the racing schedule. ‘The Hurricane’ raced a few times locally, but took the time around the Holidays to enjoy time with family and get in a ski trip.
Come February, ‘The Hurricane’ was in McDonough , GA for the NBL Spring Nationals. Facing a similar field in 8 Novice Class to that which gathered in Morristown back in November, ‘The Hurricane’ displayed some improved racing skills. Trevor would bring home a 5th Place finish on Saturday, before bringing home his first National Podium since the ABA Gator Nationals in January of 2008. ‘The Hurricane’ finished 3rd Place on Sunday. Next up would be a return to Oldsmar , FL and the ABA Gator Nationals. Trevor moved from ABA Novice to Intermediate at this race3 in 2007. Standing four wins short of the move-up from Intermediate to Expert, ‘The Hurricane’ figured to be a serious contender in the 8-Intermediate ranks. Friday night, ‘The Hurricane’ led the Main Event around the track to take home win #22 and set the table for the weekend. Saturday & Sunday would prove less fruitful as ‘The Hurricane’ would finish a respectable 4th Place both days.
Our next trip take us again in Morristown , TN ; this time for the NBL Spring Nationals. This would prove to be ‘The Hurricane’s’ most successful weekend of National racing to date. Trevor was dominating in the heat racing, winning all five of his motos over the two days. However, he did not enjoy the same luck come Main Event time. Both days, ‘The Hurricane’ would come home in 2nd Place . Trevor was disappointed by not winning at Main Event time, but he came away with some valuable racing lessons.
Following a trip over to Supercross BMX in Boiling Springs , SC where ‘The Hurricane’ picked up wins #23 & #24 in the Saturday’s South Carolina State Qualifier Race and Sunday’s Redline Cup Qualifier; it was off to Gonzales , LA home of the 2009 ABA Cajun Nationals. Trevor entered the weekend hopeful of turning the page on his Intermediate career and beginning his next challenge in the Expert Class. Alas, it was not to be on this weekend. The 8-Intermediate Class belonged to ‘Shady’ Brady Turnbill. He took the wins (and the Expert move-up) Saturday & Sunday, with Jacob ‘Evil Cricket’ Roset finishing in 2nd and ‘The Hurricane’ bringing home 3rd. It was on the ride home from LA that Trevor told me that he was going to focus on making his move-up to Expert on his home track during the ABA Dixieland Nationals.
Well the month between the Cajun Nationals and the Dixieland Nationals seemed to take forever. Finally, the day on the calendar and the ABA tractor-trailer arrived at Wild Horse Creek Park in Powder Springs.
The rain delayed the start of the race by a couple of hours and with more rain looking to be on the way, the ABA made the decision to go with a 1 moto transfer. ‘The Hurricane’ made easy work of both the 7/8 Mixed Open & 8-Intermediate motos bringing home 1st place finishes and with them, spots in both Main Events. He would make it around the track without incident on his way to the 7/8 Mixed Open Main Event win; setting the stage for a showdown in the 8-Intermediate Main Event.
‘The Hurricane’ came to the gate along with seven other riders looking for a win. The class of this field figured to be ‘The Hurricane’ starting from Gate 8, Cameron Smith from Gate 6, and Jacob ‘Evil Cricket’ Roset starting from Gate 1. The Gate dropped and the race was on. Cameron Smith got the early snap, but ‘The Hurricane’ showed some serious horsepower to pull into the lead about halfway down the front straight. At this point it was obvious it would be a three rider race to the finish. ‘Evil Cricket’ made a charge and capitalized on his inside line from Gate 1, sticking his bike into Turn 1 in the lead with ‘The Hurricane’ and Cameron in close pursuit.
It looked like ‘Evil Cricket’ just might run away with the race on the 2nd straight, as he stretched his lead to nearly a bicycle length over ‘The Hurricane.’ As the two lead riders entered Turn 2, ‘Evil Cricket’ railed through the center of the turn, while ‘The Hurricane’ climbed high on the banking of Turn 2. ‘Evil Cricket’ would exit Turn 2 with the lead, but ‘The Hurricane’ now had a full head of steam. The riders were handlebar-to-handlebar down the 3rd Straight. Entering Turn 3, ‘Evil Cricket’ again had the favored inside line and used it to take the centerline around the turn, forcing ‘The Hurricane’ up toward the white line at the top of the turn.
Coming from high on Turn 3, ‘The Hurricane’ pressed the pace. As the riders reached the first obstacle exiting the turn it was again a handlebar-to-handlebar contest. As the riders crested the table top, ‘The Hurricane’ gained a slight advantage. Down the backside of the table, ‘The Hurricane’ began to pull into the lead. Now, ‘The Hurricane’ had the inside line as the race entered the final Turn. On the entrance to Turn 4, ‘The Hurricane’ made the most of his position, getting into the turn first and shutting the door on his competitor.
A pass that started in Turn 2 had finally been completed in the final turn. ‘The Hurricane’ would pump through the Rhythm Section on point for the win.
I am not sure who was yelling louder, Dad or Trevor, as ‘The Hurricane’ crossed the finish line. The folks gathered around the finish line may have thought we were crazy the way we carried on (yelling and hugging and jumping up & down), but I would do it all again. It was an awesome moment; a moment that I will always remember.
Sunday proved a little tougher as ‘The Hurricane’ moved into the Expert Class. Trevor finished 2nd in 7/8 Open but failed to make the Main Event in 8 Expert.
Until the next time, see you at the track.
|
|
‘Hurricane’ Trevor Harrison ventured down to Kissimmee, FL the weekend of October 17-19 for the ABA Fall Nationals/Disney Cup. Three days of National racing attracted participants from far and wide. Racers converged on The Silver Spurs Arena from 40 states and 10 countries. The Hurricane’s racing weekend began in Moto 14 Friday, competing in and 7/8 Mixed Open. With six riders on the gate for the 1st heat of the 7/8 Mixed Open, 2 would transfer to the evening’s Main Event. The Hurricane would begin his weekend with a respectable 3rd Place finish, meaning he would return in the 2nd round looking for a spot in the 7/8 Mixed Open Main Event. The 8-Intermediate included 11 riders split into two groups. The 11 riders were from all parts of the United States (Washington, California, Utah, Idaho, Maryland, Louisiana, Florida, Tennessee, and Georgia). As usual there were some competitors The Hurricane recognized and others he would be competing against for the first time. Each group would see 4 riders move onto to the Main Event. The Hurricane would be in the 2nd rack of 8-Intermediates (Moto 80/5 riders). Again with 2 transfer spots on the line in the 1st heat, The Hurricane would finish 3rd. Needing to finish in the top 3 in heat 2 of 7/8 Mixed Open, The Hurricane snapped from the gate, maneuvered the course and brought home a 2nd Place finish to move into the Main Event.
With one transfer out of his way, The Hurricane joined two other 8-Intermediate riders in the gate for Moto 80/Heat 2, looking for the final 2 spots in the evening’s Main Event. The Hurricane snapped to an early lead. He lead the riders around the track, bringing home the win and with it a transfer to the 8-Intermediate Main Event. The Hurricane’s first Main Event of the weekend would be 7/8 Mixed Open. Trevor would bring home a 4th Place finish. Next up, 8-Intermediate Main Event (http://www.go211.com/videos/10388/), The Hurricane snapped from the gate and pursued the competitors down the 1st straight, entering Turn 1 in 5th Place. Trevor rode the course cleanly and unleashed an awesome burst of speed through the Rhythm Section of the 3rd straight and moved into 3rd as the riders entered the final turn. The Hurricane was edged out at the line and finished in 4th place. Two races, two Main Events; not a bad way to start the weekend. Saturday would see The Hurricane competing only in the 8-Intermediate class. Again the class was split into two groups. This time, The Hurricane would be in the first group with five other riders, each looking for 1 of the 4 spots in the Main Event. With 2 transfer spots on the line in Heat 1, the Hurricane would finish a disappointing 5th. This would set the stage for a last chance to transfer through to the Main Event in Round 2. The four competitors lined up on the gate. Only 2 were going to the Main Event and The Hurricane was dead set on being one of them. The Hurricane snapped from the gate and set the pace for the group around the track, crossing the line in 1st place and again punching his ticket through to the Main Event. The 8-Intermediate Main Event would see 7 of the previous evening’s 8 participants line up, again. Myles (MGD) Dunehew again proved the class of the group, leading start to finish and bringing home his final 8-Intermediate win (he turned 9 on Sunday). The Hurricane raced valiantly and finished in a respectable 5th Place. Sunday morning dawned with it a chill in the air, reminding us all the season had turned from Summer to Fall. Again, The Hurricane would compete in 7/8 Mixed Open and 8-Intermediate racing. With 10 7 & 8 year-old Novice and Intermediate riders split into 2 groups of 5, The Hurricane would come to the gate with the first rack of competitors. Again there were 2 transfer spots into the Main Event on the line. The Hurricane was absolutely singular in his focus and laid down what may well have been his most ferocious lap of the weekend. The Hurricane snapped to the lead right out of the gate, out pulled his competitors down the 1st Straight and held off a late charge to bring home the win and with it a ticket to the Main Event. In 8-Intermediate, The Hurricane’s fortunes would be significantly different. Again with 11 riders answering the call, The Hurricane would be on the first gate with 5 other competitors. Following what may have been his fastest lap of the weekend, The Hurricane was caught-up in traffic out of the gate and never quite recovered, coming home 5th. This would again mean a 2nd round race. Needing a top 2 finish to get into the Main Event, The Hurricane locked and loaded his Speed Machine in the gate. He snapped from the gate with the lead and pulled the field down the 1st Straight. On the entrance to Turn 1, The Hurricane would find himself leading the pack but also on the outside and therefore highest line entering the turn. As two competitors moved up on the inside, the three riders battled for position around the apex of Turn 1. On the exit to Turn 1, The Hurricane ran out of race track and had to grab the brakes and cross the white line to avoid a collision. This bobble moved The Hurricane back to 3rd and left him in a desperate fight to transfer. The Hurricane unleashed everything he had in himself and put on an awesome charge through the Rhythm Section and into the final turn, but it would not be enough. The Hurricane missed the final transfer spot by less than a half a tire length.
Coming to the gate in 7/8 Mixed Open for his final Main Event of the weekend, The Hurricane had one last chance to bring home a win. As had been the case all weekend, The Hurricane drew an outside gate in the Main Event (Gate 6). As the gate dropped, The Hurricane snapped first. With a slight advantage out of the gate, The Hurricane pulled with all his might down the 1st Straight to lead the riders into Turn 1. However in a near repeat of his final 8-I qualifier; The Hurricane found himself with the outside and highest line as the field entered Turn 1. As the riders moved up the course, The Hurricane was forced to slam on the brakes (or go over the berm). The resulting loss of momentum saw The Hurricane exit Turn 1 in 7th place. Trevor fought tenaciously and rode his Speed Machine with all the skill and speed he could generate, but the damage had been done. The Hurricane would come home in 6th Place.
All in all, The Hurricane had a successful weekend, as he made four of a possible five Main Events; finishing with 2-4th, 1-5th, and 1-6th. The Hurricane would like to thank the folks at the ABA for putting on such an awesome event. Trevor would also like to congratulate all the winners and offer a hearty, “see you again soon” to all of his competitors. The competition is definitely greater (in both numbers as well as skill-set) and the intensity of the racing exponentially higher in these National events. Many times the difference in a 1st Place finish and failing to qualify is determined in the bat of an eye. While the reality of winning (euphoria) and losing (gut wrenching disappointment) is at the heart of all competition, it is important to remember that it is the thrill of competing that draws us in and keeps us coming back for more. Realizing where you need to improve, going home and practicing, only to come back and throw the proverbial hat in the ring, again; that is what competition is all about. Rarely does anyone win every time, nor does the valiant warrior lose every time. What is most important is that each time, we rise up and return to compete again.
See you at the track.
|
The Hurricane traveled north to Dayton BMX in Kettering, OH for the US Open/Redline Cup Finals-East.
A light rain fell all day Friday, canceling both practice and the Pre-Race.
Saturday the weather was beautiful. With temperatures hovering around 80 degrees; blue sky with a few puffy white clouds and a light breeze, the weather and the track were perfect for the US Open. The Hurricane would face a field of 14 competitors (the largest Class in the event) in the 7-Intermediate Class. Cameron Smith (GA), Ian ‘No Brakes’ Connelly (TN), and ‘Action’ Jackson Kincheloe (NC) were familiar faces. The other riders came from Ohio (3), Indiana (3), Pennsylvania (2), New York (1), and Maryland (2).
The field would be divided into 3 Motos (28, 29, 30) of five riders with a 2-2 (two rounds-two riders per round) transfer to the Semis. The Hurricane would be on the first gate of 7-Intermediate competitors. The gate dropped and the five riders charged down the start hill. The 14 ride of ‘Brewster” Vidak would lead the field around the first turn; The Hurricane sitting just off his back tire in the 2-spot. The riders in the three, four, and five positions would be back to battle for the final two spots in the Semis. ‘Brewster’ and The Hurricane continued to set the pace around the track to secure the first two transfer spots. Trevor would get to watch the next time Moto 28 came to the gate, as he prepared for his first trip to Semis.
Once the field of 12 had been decided, the riders were divided into two groups of six riders. The top four finishers in each race would advance to an eight rider Main Event for the US Open Title. With the first four participants in the Main Event decided in Semi 1, The Hurricane would be looking to punch his ticket in Semi #2. The gate dropped and the six riders were off. The Hurricane was again sitting on the 2 spot, this time trailing the 509 bike of William Reynolds as the racers left Turn 1. Down the 2nd straight and into Turn 2, The Hurricane saw an opportunity and dove low into the turn looking for the lead. That would prove a fatal error. I am not sure exactly what happened (was he too low, did he turn too sharply), but The Hurricane’s front wheel folded underneath him and pitched Trevor over his bars, landing face down in a heap on the exit to Turn 2. The field would pass The Hurricane and leave him a spectator for the US Open Main Event.
Trevor and I returned to the Kovachi Wheels tent to watch the Mains, rest, and make sure nothing more than his pride had been damaged. After checking over The Hurricane and his Speed Machine, I asked Trevor about his race in the Semis. I asked him if he realized that had he not gone for the pass, he was still sitting securely in a transfer spot to the Main Event. Trevor looked at me and said, “Daddy, I thought I could win.” Well, I have never asked Trevor to do any more or any less than to compete with everything he’s got every time he steps on the track. So, I could only smile because he really has been listening to me.
Sunday, The Hurricane would participate in both 7/8 Mixed Open (7 & 8 Year-old Novice & Intermediate) and 7-Intermediate in his quest for a Redline Cup #1 plate. Trevor was not alone in deciding to participate in ‘Open’ competition on Sunday. The Moto field expanded from about 65 Motos on Saturday to 84 Motos on Sunday. The 7/8 Mixed Open went from 4 participants on Saturday to 11 on Sunday. The eleven riders would be split into a moto of 6 and a moto of 5, each taking 2-2 to The Main Event.
The Hurricane’s racing day would begin in Moto 3 racing 7/8 Mixed Open. The gate dropped and the field rushed down the starting hill. As the pack entered Turn 1, The Hurricane and The Candyman took control of the race. With The Candyman on point, The Hurricane would settle into the 2 spot and the two riders would leave the rest of the pack to sort out who would join them in the Main following the next round.
With a transfer to The Main Event in 7/8 Mixed Open secured, The Hurricane set his focus on his 7-Intermediate Class. Again, 15 riders would be divided among three Motos with 12 transferring through to the Semis. By the time Moto 45 got on the gate, a light rain had begun falling. The Hurricane came off the gate in the middle of a pack of 3 riders. He would come home 4th, crashing and rolling across the line as The Hurricane tried to flash a little style while jumping the table top just before the finish line. This would mean The Hurricane and two other riders would come to the gate a second time with two moving onto the Semis and 1 left to watch for the remainder of the day. The Hurricane would have to safely navigate the track; something he had not done in his last two ‘Class’ races (crashing in Sat Semis and today’s 1st Heat), while besting at least one competitor to get back to the Semis. In Moto 45/Heat 2, The Hurricane would prove all business. With a quick snap and awesome pull down the front straight, The Hurricane jumped out to a comfortable lead, safely navigated Turn 2 (the scene of Sat. Semi crash) and the table top exiting Turn 3 (the scene of Heat 1’s crash) to bring home the win and a transfer through to the Semis.
The Hurricane would again be in the second of the two Semis on Sunday. This time Trevor found himself in the middle of the pack, as the 6 riders headed into Turn 1. In Turn 1, The Hurricane made a little breathing room for his self and moved safely and securely into the 3 Hole down the 2nd Straight. Trevor showed he learned something from the previous day’s Semi result, as he took stock of his position and realized that he was not facing a serious challenge for the third position nor could he catch the 2 bike without taking some serious chances. The Hurricane held on to the 3 hole and with it, punched his ticket into his 2nd Main Event of the day.
The Hurricane’s 1st Main Event of the day would be in 7/8 Mixed Open. Eager to get a hand up on the competition, The Hurricane “snapped,” but a split second early and hit the gate. The resulting loss of momentum caused The Hurricane to leave the gate in 8th and final position. Charging down the 1st Straight, The Hurricane would move into 7th as he entered Turn 1. Fighting for position, The Hurricane overtook another rider to move into 6th as the riders exited the turn. Down the 2nd straight, The Hurricane would overtake a third rider to move into the 5 spot. The Hurricane continued to ride fast and furious as he entered Turn 2. However, the early hiccup at the gate had created too much of a gap for The Hurricane to make up over the fast, and tight racetrack. He would safely navigate the rhythm section, Turn 3, and the final straight to come home 5th. Congratulations go out to William Reynolds for taking the win and with it a Redline Cup #1 plate to run for the next year.
The Hurricane’s last race of the weekend would be the 7-Intermediate Main Event. With a full rack of eight riders, the gate dropped and the race was on. The Hurricane was in the thick of the pack as they charged down the start hill and onto the 1st Straight. In Turn 1, the leaders began to separate themselves from the pack. The Hurricane exited Turn 1 in the 3 Hole. Charging hard down the 2nd Straight, the racers settled into two groups of four riders. The Hurricane was still sitting 3rd, as the first four riders entered Turn 2. On the exit of the turn, it appeared The Hurricane had run out of gas. He was overtaken for the 3rd spot. The rider would move a bike length ahead of Trevor through the rhythm section. Running out of race track, time, and energy; The Hurricane summoned up all he had for one final push. As he entered the final turn, The Hurricane blew high into the corner of Turn 3, carrying with him all the speed he could. Still trailing the 3rd place rider by about a half a bike length on the exit of the turn, The Hurricane spun with all his might up the table top on the final straight. As he crested the obstacle, The Hurricane drew even with his rival. The momentum The Hurricane carried off that final turn, up and over the table top, would push him past the other rider and bring home a 3rd Place finish by less than a wheel length.
The Hurricane had a great experience at his first Redline Cup Finals. He would like to thank; Bob and the host of volunteers at Dayton BMX for their fine facility, the ABA and all of the competitors for creating such an awesome event, and John Kovachi/Kovachi Wheels for sharing his shade and hospitality all weekend. Congratulations to all those that took home Redline Cup #1 plates, jacket, and trophies this weekend.
Saturday, September 13th The Hurricane will be at PTC BMX for the Georgia NBL State Championship Race. The next National racing on the calendar is October 17-19, when the ABA journeys down to Kissimmee, FL for the ABA Fall Nationals/Disney Cup. See you at the track. GH |
|
Well nearly a month has passed since the last Hurricane Report. Trevor has been very busy. He started the second grade on Monday, August 11. Chester, Trevor’s Labrador Retriever puppy, has spent the month at least doubling in size. He is going to be a big one. But enough about those things, let’s get to the racing action… The month began with the second ABA State Qualifier Race at Wild Horse Creek on Sunday, August 3rd. The Hurricane took the gate against five competitors (Cameron Smith, Harrison Latham, Dakota Riggs, Steven Riggs and Andrew Sperano). Looking to improve on his 3rd Place finish in the first ABA SQR at Noonday back in April, The Hurricane was all business. He went out to the lead in Heat 1 and never looked back. The Hurricane was through to the Main Event. In the Main Event, The Hurricane would line-up with Cameron, Harrison, Andrew, and Steven. Needing a win to keep his narrow hopes of winning the State Title alive, The Hurricane spun out of the gate into the lead and onto the win. Tuesday, August 5 would mark the final edition of the Summer ’08 Tuesday night racing series for Cobb County BMX. With only three 7-Intermediates answering the call, The Hurricane would face his competitors in three consecutive rounds to determine a winner. Trevor picked up right where he left on Sunday. The Hurricane sprinted to an early lead in each round; bringing home three more heat wins and The Hurricane’s 13th ABA Intermediate win (25 wins and Trevor moves to Expert). Saturday, August 9 would find The Hurricane traveling to the south side of Atlanta for his 3rd NBL State Qualifier Race at Peachtree City BMX. The last time Trevor lost a start was the NBL SQR at Sandy Ridge BMX on July 12 (Trevor’s last race before Chester joined Team Hurricane). The competitor that bested him day, Gavin Campbell, would certainly be in the field at his home track. The Hurricane brought his game face and his good luck charm (Chester) with him to PTC BMX. There would be no need for luck on this day as The Hurricane was a dominating force, winning all three heat races. The Hurricane now has competed in the mandatory 3 NBL SQR’s and 7 of the 8 “locals” to qualify for the NBL State Series (SCR, September 13 at PTC BMX). Sunday, August 10 would find The Hurricane at Noonday BMX. Racing Total Points, The Hurricane would have to win three starts on this day. And win he did. The Hurricane posted ABA Intermediate win number 14 and began to set his sights on the ABA Georgia State Championship Race on Sunday August 24th. Needing one more “local” race to qualify for the NBL State Title, The Hurricane ventured down to Sandy Ridge BMX in McDonough, GA on Saturday, August 16th. Following a Heat 1 loss to Gavin in the NBL State Qualifier at Sandy Ridge BMX July 12, The Hurricane has spun to 20 consecutive wins. On this evening, the weather would present the first challenge as rain delayed the start of the race by nearly 45 minutes and brought about the decision to run a two moto transfer (2 instead of the normal 3). Once the motos were posted, the next challenge was obvious. The Hurricane would be on the gate not only with the last challenger to beat him to the finish line (Gavin), but he would also have to best two 8 year-old challengers, Hunter and Kaleb, to keep the streak alive. With the challenge square in front of him, The Hurricane went to the start hill. The competitors clipped into their pedals and prepared for the cadence. The gate dropped and the race was on. The competitors charged down the hill in unison. Approaching the first obstacle, a table top, and the four racers were separated by less than a bicycle length. The Hurricane spun with all his might and seized the lead as the racers entered the first turn. Trevor would extend his lead down the second straight and go on to win round 1. The riders came to the gate for the 2nd and final round of the day, each with their gaze fixed on the perfect racing line into Turn 1. As the gate dropped, the four competitors snapped their machines into motion. Just as in the first race, the competitors approached the first obstacle separated by the slimmest of margins. As The Hurricane pressed the pace, Hunter accepted the challenge and the two riders sprinted to the lead. Kaleb was not going to let the race get away from him and he charged hard down the inside line and into Turn 1. The Hurricane had the slimmest of leads as he and Hunter rounded the apex of Turn 1. Kaleb’s aggressive charge had him speeding into the bottom of the corner. As Kaleb’s speed carried him around the corner, he drifted up the berm and into Hunter’s racing line, taking over the 2nd position. The Hurricane now had the lead and a full head of steam as he spun away down the 2nd Straight. On the exit of Turn 2, Hunter overtook Kaleb and set his sights squarely on The Hurricane. Hunter flew down the 3rd Straight and had the gap closed to just over a bike length as the riders exited the final turn in a sprint through the rhythm section and across the finish line. It took everything he had, but The Hurricane was determined not to let the win slip away. He hung on at the finish line to win by less than a wheel length. The Hurricane’s next challenge would be the Saturday Pre-Race of the ABA Georgia State Championship weekend. The weather was overcast and the wind was steady in the 20-25 mph range with gusts of 40mph, but the clouds and breeze kept the temperatures cool and the track was in near perfect racing condition as five riders came to the gate in the 7-Intermediate Class. It was a group of riders with which The Hurricane is very familiar; Cameron, Harrison, Andrew, and Dakota. Trevor, Cameron, and Harrison have been battling on the track all season. Andrew joined the ranks following his move-up at the East Coast Nat’ls and Dakota joined shortly thereafter only to have his season put on hold with a broken foot. As the gate dropped, The Hurricane spun to an early lead. Pulling away down the second straight, Trevor would win the round and with it a pass to the Main Event. Cameron, Harrison, and Andrew would earn the final three spots in the 7-I Main over the next two rounds. In the Main Event, it would once again be The Hurricane darting to an early lead and holding off a late charge from Cameron to take home the 1st Place hardware for the day. The Hurricane came to the track Sunday needing a win in his class and an upset of 7-Expert Kyle ‘Speed Racer’ Kruysman in his Moto in order to go home State Champion. With a field of seven riders (Cameron Smith, Harrison Latham, Andrew Sperano, Ian Connelly, Steve Riggs, and Dakota Riggs), The Hurricane had little time to worry about Speed Racer’s fate. Trevor would take care of business in his first heat, cruising into the Main Event with Cameron finishing in the 2 spot, punching his ticket, as well. The Main Event would see six riders come to the gate; each one wanting to go home with the big blue 1st Place Georgia State Championship Race trophy. The gate dropped and Cameron snapped to the lead. The Hurricane charged into 2nd, while Andrew Sperano (did I mention this kid is 4 years old?) rocketed his way into the 3 spot. As they crossed the roller at the bottom of the start hill, The Hurricane began to close the gap. Over the table top and The Hurricane had overtaken his challenger for the lead. The race was now The Hurricane’s to lose. And that was not about to happen. Trevor navigated the remainder of the course without incident and claimed victory. In the end, Kyle ‘Speed Racer’ Kruysman would win his motos and with it, the coveted GA #1 plate (his third straight). Congratulations to Kyle on his championship and best of luck at next weekend’s NBL Grand Nationals. Kyle currently sits as NBL National #1 7-year old (there is no shame in The Hurricane finishing his first GA State Series campaign #2 to this guy). Also, congratulations to all of The Hurricane’s competitors. Cameron, together you and Trevor are making each other faster every day. Harrison, you have found some major speed over the last two months. Andrew, four years old and battling with 7 year olds; your State Championship is well deserved. Ian, welcome to the Intermediate Class; you made the Main in your first race, congratulations. Steven, way to battle all day long. And Dakota, way to battle back from the broken foot; I know you will only get faster as the healing completes. The Hurricane hopes to see you all back on the track soon. Team Hurricane will take off Labor Day weekend. The Hurricane will next spin in Kettering, OH at Dayton BMX in the US Open/REDLINE Cup Finals-East, September 5-7. I hope to see you there. GH
|
|
Finals-East. See you at the track.
|
|
Team Hurricane welcomed its newest member on Saturday, our mascot Chester. Chester is a White Labrador Retriever. Having picked him up in Watkinsville on Saturday, we could think of nothing more appropriate for Chester’s first day with his new family than to take him to a BMX race. Chester made his debut as Team Hurricane descended on Sandy Ridge BMX in McDonough, GA. Trevor was looking to complete another step in qualifying for the NBL Georgia State Series Title.
The Hurricane would leave Sandy Ridge BMX with his first NBL “perfect” since his initial NBL race at PTC BMX in January. Having not raced since Saturday July 12th’s SQR at Sandy Ridge BMX, The Hurricane was at full strength and raring to go. The Hurricane went to the gate three times and all three times he powered across the finish line in first place. Trevor’s “snap” (start) continues to improve. All three times the gate dropped, The Hurricane snapped from the gate, spinning away ahead of the competition. Each time, the Hurricane made his lead stand up from start to finish.
Sunday would bring with it a ABA Redline Cup Qualifier Race at Noonday BMX in Kennesaw, GA. The Hurricane had previously qualified for the Redline Cup East Finals (Kettering, OH 9/12-14) by virtue of his win at Southside BMX (Greenville, SC) on June 7th. Never one to skip an opportunity to go racing, The Hurricane was not going to miss a Redline Cup Qualifier and the competition it was sure to draw. Competitors came in from North Carolina, South Carolina, and Tennessee, as well as the usual suspects from the CCBMX gang.
The Hurricane would participate in both the 7 Intermediate Class and the 7/8 Mixed Open. His first trip to the gate would be in Moto 1 Heat 1 for the 7 & under Mixed Open. Competing with The Hurricane were Andrew “the Mohawked Mad Man” Sperano (4I), Jackson Kincheloe (7I from North Carolina), and brothers Steven “Torpedo” Riggs (6I) & Tyler Riggs (7N). The Mojo that Chester brought to The Hurricane on Saturday would carry over into Sunday. The Hurricane again demonstrated an awesome snap that had him out in front of the competition by the bottom of the start hill. The lead that Trevor seized on the start hill would only increase as The Hurricane unleashed his fury, spinning furiously around the track to earn a transfer to the Main Event.
The Hurricane would join the 7 Intermediate Class on the gate for Moto 11 Heat 1. Competing with The Hurricane were Cameron Smith, Harrison Latham, Andrew Sperano, Steven Riggs, and Jackson Kincheloe. With another great snap and furious spin around the track, The Hurricane aboard his Speed Machine would again punch his ticket through to the Main Event. With transfers to both Main Events out of the way, Trevor settled down in the shade for some time with Chester and to watch his fellow competitors battle it out on the track for spots alongside The Hurricane in the Main Event.
Locked and loaded in the gate for the 7 & Under Mixed Open Main Event, The Hurricane again snapped to the hole shot and sprinted down the first straight in the lead. As he exited Turn 1, The Hurricane had clear sailing the remainder of the track. Trevor continued around the course with his competitors in pursuit, but the lead would prove too great to be overcome. The Hurricane would take home the win.
In the 7 Intermediate Main Event, The Hurricane looked to finish another “perfect” day. And finish he did. The Hurricane would be hotly pursued but never really threatened as he laid down one final hot lap to secure the 7 Intermediate Main event win and close an undefeated weekend.
With Sunday’s final ABA State Qualifier now clear on the horizon, The Hurricane appears primed to improve on his 3rd Place finish in April’s 1st SQR and put himself squarely in the hunt for the ABA State Series title. Trevor will have one more opportunity to prepare for Sunday’s SQR when he races Tuesday night at Wild Horse Creek.
Hope to see you at the track soon.
GH
|
|
Thursday, June 26th The Hurricane would travel to Peachtree City BMX. The Hurricane decided he wants to participate in the 2008 Georgia NBL State Championship Series. In order to meet the eligibility requirements, Trevor must race at least eight local races, as well as, participate in at least three of the six schedule State Qualifier Races. So, Thursday we headed off to PTC BMX to compete in a local race.
PTC BMX puts on wonderful local events for their riders and Thursday night would prove another great time. The Hurricane would be matched against two riders that regularly compete at Peachtree City. Trevor proved up to the task, and the three competitors provided some of the evening’s most exciting racing. Each race would include multiple lead changes and each time end with all three riders battling down the final straight to the finish line. The Hurricane would finish 3rd-3rd-2nd on the evening.
When Trevor moved from the beginner class (Novice in ABA/Rookie in NBL) to the next level of proficiency (Intermediate in ABA/Novice in NBL), the difference between winning and losing shrank dramatically. In the beginner class, a rider can overcome a mistake or two during the course of a race and still win. At his current level of competition, The Hurricane has learned that something as simple as exiting a turn a little too high can be the difference in a 1st or last place finish.
Saturday, June 28th would find the Hurricane in Albany, GA. First he would compete in an NBL State Qualifier Race, followed by a Bob Warnicke Scholarship Race (NBL’s equivalent to the ABA’s Race for Life). The Hurricane would take home 1st Place in the 7Novice Class (Congratulations to friend and fellow rider Kyle Kruysman on his win in 7X), as rain shortened the SQR to only two motos. In the Bob Warnicke race, The Hurricane would bring home 3rd-4th-4th place finishes. As I referenced previously, the difference between first and last can often times happen in the blink of an eye.
In the first heat race the riders pretty well finished the course just as they entered the 1st Turn. In the second race of the evening, The Hurricane led the charge from the gate and down the front straight four wide. Unfortunately, his lead was less than a tire as the competitors entered Turn 1. With Trevor starting from gate 7, he was on the highside entering the turn. As the competitors rocketed into the 1st Turn the momentum carried the rider’s toward the top of the berm, leaving The Hurricane with two choices. The first; make a hard right, take the racing line away from the other competitors, and risk crashing all four riders (an all or nothing proposition). The second, drift toward the top of the berm, hope the line stays clear to dive off the top or shut it down should he run out of space. The Hurricane elected to slam on the brakes and race another day. The third race would be contested right to the final straight. The riders left Turn 3 four wide. As they topped the first obstacle exiting the turn, Trevor said he bumped one of the other riders. The contact caused The Hurricane to teeter ever so slightly, but enough to lose the momentum of the pack.
Sunday would find The Hurricane back in familiar territory, as racing action returned to Noonday BMX. This afternoon Noonday BMX would host their Race for Life event. Trevor collected another $150 for the Luekemia/Lymphoma Foundation and CCBMXer’s contributed nearly $800 to the cause. The Hurricane was matched against 9I Walker Kuehn and fellow 7I Harrison Latham. Trevor continues to demonstrate and improve on a powerful snap from the gate. This is possibly his most improved skill over the last month to six weeks (The Hurricane will tell you his ‘Manual’ or his ability to get “sick air” are his areas of greatest improvement). That powerful snap carried Trevor to 1st-1st-2nd Place on the day and his 9th ABA Intermediate win (25 wins will bring a move to Expert).
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|