| The IES race in Eagle, Idaho is definitely one of the most unique and fun races of the year. The race stages are smooth, fast, full of jumps, and fun for riders of all skill levels. The Eagle event is a great opportunity for anyone to try their hand at Enduro because the trails are relatively easy to ride but so hard to ride fast. This year, there were over 200 racers, including an awesome group of fast pro men and women from all over the west coast. Even though the competition is usually stiff, the Vibe at Eagle is all about good times with nothing but laughs and friendly trash talk at the top of the hill.
The first stage of the day was physically tough with a nasty mid-stage climb but, after the legs and lungs were opened up, we were rewarded with five more fun downhill oriented stages and more berms than I could count! After a rad day of riding, most of the dust had settled and the winds had picked up so we headed back down to the race venue to grab a beer, some food, and compare our times.—Race winner, Kyle Warner (Marin Bikes), via airport lounge |
Bikes lined the fences in anticipation.
More than 200 riders were out on the course once the day was off and running.
Last minute preparations...
The Beginner Class was the first to beep in for their runs. Stage 1 took them down "Twisted Sister".
One of the first riders of the day, Samuel Gunnerson, representing his Fly Racing full fingers.
Ryan Hasey over the rocks and through the brush...
Getting low with the "Flow".
Megan Sutton on "Flow Trail".
The Eagle Bike Park has everything from downhill runs, cross country trails, BMX, dual slalom, and a pump track. Kids love pump tracks!
Fun for all ages! The IES put together a toned down multi-stage enduro race for the kids.
The self-proclaimed "Heckle Zone", complete with Dongers and megaphone.
The eventual winner, Kyle Warner, on the first stage of the day, "Junk Yard".
Ian Mullens starting his day. Turns out he's pretty fast for a young buck. 2nd fastest Pro of the day!
Pro Women victor, Megan Carley, on "Junk Yard".
Melanie Yakemovic skying it over bridge drop on "Shake & Bake".
Amber Warren carving her way to the end of stage 2.
Pan Shot Saturday with a fast Brad Powell on "Flow Trail".
It was a little too windy for Laura Wynne to hit the drop. :-)
There's still a little Spring color in the high desert for this shot of Kyle Warner on "Stormin' Mormon".
The living legend, Jerry Vanderpool.
Bake Carley clocking out for the day.
Eagerly awaiting results.
Women's Pro Podium:
1st - Megan Carley
2nd - Amber Warren
3rd - Heather Thiry
Men's Pro Podium:
1st - Kyle Warner
2nd - Ian Mullens
3rd - Taylor Reed
Stay tuned for complete race results at http://idahoenduroseries.com and https://www.facebook.com/IdahoEnduroSeries/.
Words by Kyle Warner. Photos and Captions by David Meadows
MENTIONS: @dmword