Race Report: Arkansas Enduro Race – Arkadelphia
The inaugural Arkansas Enduro, (Arkadelphia, Arkansas USA) was held in September and drew racers from 7 states. The key element in Arkansas Enduro Series founder/director Kent Wood’s mind was using a flawless timing system, so he chose Germany’s Sportident Air+ system. Sportident volunteered to send one of their own timing reps (Sebastian Gassdorf) across the Atlantic just for this event to ensure it went as planned.
“Flawless? That is exactly what we got”, says Kent. Veteran pro racer Frank Webber (who placed 2nd), commented when asked about the timing system, “What timing system? It was so good I didn’t realize there was one. I could just race and not worry about it”
The enduro race comprised of one practice day, (course revealed only the night before practice) and 4 timed stages the following day. Racers could view their stage results on a flat screen for stages 1 and 2 as soon as they crossed the line on stage 2.
“I wanted to send racers home with a smile on their face, so I created an advanced technical trail into the final stage. I left the terrain very natural and especially advanced, as only 4 of the 15 Pro category riders were able to ride the new trail without dismounting.” Jeremiah Work, Andy Pell, Adam Umstead, and Shane McAnally were the rock garden champs!
Following the final stage 4, results were ready and awards presented within minutes. “As a racer, I always felt that’s how a race should be run, so for my first race as an organizer, I made sure it was that way”, said Kent.
Pro Men’s winner was Garet Steinmetz and Pro Women’s winner was Andrea Wilson. Pro category prize money was $3100 and will be higher next year with a series winner pay out bracket as well.
Go to Arkansasenduro.com for full race results and information on the full series for 2015.
Words: Arkansasenduro.com | Pictures: Runbikeswimphotos.com
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