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| 2005 National Cross Championships |
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| The Cross Championships were the most fun of any race this year. Even with the inevitable Portland rain and mud, everyone seemed to be in a festive mood. The racing was spectacular. We were happy when we saw Jesse Anthony throw down one of the best races of his life. Seeing him at the finish, you could tell his sixth title meant a lot to him. We rooted for Mary McConnoloug who led at the end of the first lap, but lost ground in the slop. Still, she smiled as she got onto the last podium spot. Katie Compton, paralympic tandem pilot, shocked eveyone by getting the win. Mary's husband, Mike Broderick got 9th in the Elite Men's field. Way to go Mike! We were pulling for Mark, our friend and Colt's coach, in the Pro Mens race. He started well but slipped back a bit mid-race. If Mark couldn't win, our hopes went to Ryan Trebon. Ryan threw up a lung to go by J.P. after about 3 laps, but the "specialist" J.P. re-established a small gap with a lap to go. It was also great to see Barry Wicks (also Kona) and Todd Wells on the podium. This certainly was the year of the mountain bikers! The competition at next season's NORBA races are going to be insane. There are so many great young riders right now. |
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| M C C O N N O L O U G |
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