October 3, 2009 - Power Line Park - St. Clairsville, OH
With 2009 coming to a close I have been anxious to get things underway at each event. When I arrived at the track Friday I spent most of my time keeping dry and focusing on the race that I would compete in on Saturday. Friday's weather was rainy but Saturday morning was much different; it turned out to be perfect race weather and although the morning race would be slick and muddy the afternoon track would be nearly perfect.
I got a good jump off the line and rounded the first corner and headed into the woods in second place. The leader had set a good pace but I was on a mission to make a solid pass and push forward in hopes of placing as much distance between myself and the rest of the pack as possible. I gained the lead about three quarters of the way through the first lap and held a decent lead through the second lap. I felt great, my machine was handling great and I felt I had more left physically if a last lap battle were to occur.
As I settled into my rhythm I continued to put time between myself and the rest of the XC2 class. With no warning my ATV sputtered and began to break up and run horrible. It was not long before I realized my great run was going to end; this would be the end of my race. At this point in time the mechanical issue is believed to be caused by the stator. With one round left in the season I currently hold down second place in the point standings and eighth overall. Although this race did not go as planned I am remaining positive and am looking forward to The Ironman!!
Of course I cannot thank my wife Annie enough for her support - she is the best, my team for doing a great job pitting me, my fans for their continued support and I could not be where I am without my sponsors: GT Thunder, HLS Suspension, HMF, ITP, Fly Racing, PowerMadd, Flexx, HiPer, Tire Balls, JB Racing, Precision, Albright Motorsports, XCountry Photos, and State 8.