The much-anticipated first race of the 2013 Oregon Enduro Series in picturesque Hood River, Oregon, saw Josh Carlson (AUS) and Rosara Joseph (NZ) come out victorious in the Pro classes. The Hood River segment of the series consists of seven stages over two days of racing. With about 340 entered it was sure to be a challenge for the promoters. It's been wet in the Pacific Northwest and rain was spitting off and on most of the weekend but the course conditions were great. Still, the dirt here can be deceptive, going from tacky to slippery in a matter of minutes and making judging speed critical for success.
While the racing was fast and furious, the story of the race was again the timing. With the acquisition of a new 'chip' timing system there were high-hopes of having a more efficient system for compiling 300+ racer's times on seven stages over two days. There are definitely some bugs to fix. Problems compiling data led to many delays which placed the Pro podium at 9pm Sunday night.
The next race in the series is in Bend, Oregon, the weekend of June 8th-9th. We'll have a follow-up report for you then.
For more information including results check out the
Oregon Enduro web site
BTW, the guys at Dirty Finger Bike Shop are rad. They once hooked me up with some pedals off their own ride when I had gotten to the trailhead without mine. Long story, don't ask.