2005 GNCC "The Mountaineer" Round #8 Afternoon ATV Race Coverage

A Class that doesn't always receive much recognition for its riders is the Sport Class, and I personally think everyone of them is crazy some races for even attempting some of the hill climbs with only a 350cc or less machine.

Steven Mitchell doesn’t seem to be phased by some of the brutal track conditions as he has attended every race this season aboard his Yamaha Warrior. Steven has earned himself several wins and is currently leading the points with Brad Morrison in 2nd Place aboard his Yamaha Blaster.

Tom Bobrowicz skipped the first 3 races of the season, but with a win at the Penton he is now only one point behind Brad heading into the 8th round.

With water truck moved from the starting area, the Afternoon race was about to begin with the riders lowering their heads for the riders prayer before every race.

Chris Bithell and the rest of the Pro Am Riders stood for the playing of the National Anthem.

With all the riders lined up and the pits crews, friends, and family leaving the start area the race was set to get underway with the Pro Class out front ready to start.

The start of the Pro Class had #1 Bill Ballance jumping out to a several quad length lead right off the start with the rest of the class in chase.

Rounding the hay bail right behind Bill Ballance were #2 William Yokley, #9 Brandon Ballance, #3 Chris Borich, and #4 Matt Smiley.

#16 Santo Derisi found himself in last place as he connected with the Hay Bail spinning him around.

Trying to close the gap on Bill, Brandon Ballance went into the 2nd Turn a little too fast and about flipped over making the turn with Matt Smiley going wide to avoid a collision.

The Four Stroke Tech Teammates, Michael Houston and Chris Jenks were fighting the dust early as they were off to a mid pack start.

Heading into the Rock Garden first was Bill Ballance with Matt Smiley right behind him getting off to one of his best starts of the season.