2008 Gncc-Round#4-"Pirelli Big Buck- Pro Race Coverage

[Pappy]

With dark clouds looming in the distance, I figured I would not press my luck by staying for all the classes to start. The weather, combined with riders not making it more then a lap or two at previous rounds had my files void of photographs that I despretly needed so I was forced to bail and head off to the woods to cut off the leaders.

[Pappy]

Now I dont walk particuliarly fast, and cutting off the leaders has been tough this year due to the wet conditions and course layouts. With that said, I was pretty stoked to have made my way back into a section well before the leaders had approached. (Self accomplishment pat on the back)

My secret weapon was hot on my trail as we set up and waited for the lead group. I want to thank Cody for all his help at this round as I know he was beat after racing the morning race but never strayed more then a step or two from me as I trekked around the course....and even took several of the shots you will see used in coverage!

[Pappy]

Cook approached and was setting a great pace. The course was rutted badly, and slick!

[Pappy]

Kiser had his FRE KTM in hot pursuit! Unfortunatley, Kiser was only able to score 2 laps before pulling it in to the pits, ending his day

[Pappy]

Brandon Sommers was in 3rd when he passed my position, and he was looking like he was well on his way to a good day even this early in the race!

[Pappy]

With the slight turn in the course, and heavy woods, I could not see the approaching riders. When Borich ripped into my view in 4th I could see he had already done some work getting to the front after another mid pack start.

[Pappy]

Matt Smiley was right in the thick of things once again as the woods now sounded like a war zone as the XC1 class was nose to tail through this section!

[Pappy]

My headset was ful of talk with regards to the bad start McGill had, however he was inside the top 10 and charging hard!

[Pappy]

Ryan Lane has been quietly working is way to the top of the heap in XC1, relying on proven power and reliable equipment to keep him finishing well, shown here inside the top 10 and riding smooth!

[Pappy]

Johnny Gallagher is well known for solid finishes when the conditions get bad, and while it wasn't the muddiest event we have seen in 2008, it was right up his alley as he works his way through the muck!