DarkCross suggestion box
Darkcross wasn’t like anything other race I have seen in MB. I have never been a big fan of cross, that is no secret. But cross is a good social event cause you get to race and then watch others race, or vise versa.
Linc and Ramona & kids were there, Tim & Liz too, Craig D & family as well and Jane & I with our kids all represented Tinker.
The kids race was pretty cool. I know Tyson was just excited to be the Speedway racing. He was more interested in all the people cheering than going really fast, he took a bad spill on a very loose dirt corner, but he was able to ride the tricky grass stuff and was smiling at the end. The water bottle full of candy after didn’t hurt either. All the Wiebe kids raced & so did Craig boy (don’t know his name), but he was a natural.
Craig raced the non MCA race on his Fatback, he did awesome, even passed some other dude right on the line.
Photo credit: ABES
The B race with about 70 racers was pretty crazy. When you put that many people on a course that only takes 5-6 minutes per lap, throw in some tight off camber grassy corners, a grand stand run up, loose gravel, all in the dark. Well, it was a little nuts, but in a good way. It also looked really fast to those of us watching. Specially on the north side of the course on the grassy, dark section, I was impressed with the pace. (Maybe Linc and Tim can give a report on how it all went down.)
Photo credit: Dave Benson
I was told by a good friend that I was no longer welcomed in the B race on my MTB a while back… I know how to take a hint. Too bad cause my cross bike is not up to current race standards. But I took my lumps in A. Did all I could, was even dead last for while after my chain jumped off and got jammed, but I left it all out there. Can’t do more than that. Frustrating watching guys you usually race with no problem in MTB, just pull away.
The experience of running up the grandstand is something I will never forget. It was LOUD and the flashing cameras were totally blinding. It was nerve racking and amazing at the same time.
Photo credit: Dave Benson
So overall, it was an experience, more than a race for me. But this was nice to be able to enjoy it with my family, lots of time to hang out with other racers & non racers all evening. Live music, food concessions, a live announcer, huge cash prizes. There was a lot going on. Hopefully Craig, Tim and Linc can chime in with their comments. It was truly something special, thanks to those who made it happen.
Just one tiny suggestion
Next time, please call it a short track XC race and make everyone ride a MTB, then it would be perfect.
Photo credit: Mark Reimer
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September 19th, 2011 at 4:46 pm
The Doell boys had a blast. It was hard work hauling 30 + lbs up the grandstand, but nipping that guy at the end made it all worthwhile. I’m sure not all the cross races are like this, but i’m even going to get a race license next year so that I can do it more. We are all going out to Southern Cross ( can’t make Menno Cross) and the whole family is planning on racing. I highly encourage other Farm Team members to make it out for that one. The ABES will put on a good time. Even if you don’t want to race, watching is almost as much fun. If you have kids that can ride, put them in and enjoy the show. I have to give a big thanks to the Dark Cross organizers. Well Done!
September 19th, 2011 at 6:01 pm
Was great watching you run up the grand steps. Hope you heard my words of encouragement! Great event all around!
September 22nd, 2011 at 7:49 pm
Well done! Man does Tim ever look intense! I would have hated having him breathing down my back. Way to go. Sounds like the event was well run. FGBC and RRR deserve credit for another creative push on how to have fun on bikes.
September 25th, 2011 at 8:58 am
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