Just three weeks after it kicked off the ProGRT season with the
Underworld Cup, the NW Cup returns to Dry Hill for the second installment of the series. The ProGRT has moved on to its next stop, taking with it a handful of participants, some big names, and a throng of hecklers — but what remains is the core of the Northwest racing scene. A close group of racers, local heroes, awesome courses, and
fortunately less crowded parking.
Racing the same venue two times in a month might seem like a rerun at first glance, but Dry Hill offers a warren of connecting trails ready and waiting to assemble into a new course. As an added bonus, the recently completed
Queen Diamond trail received its maiden voyage as part of the Cat 2 course. Paralleling
King Diamond, the newest member of royalty dished up steeps, loamy turns, and a few chunks of sandstone for a rowdy ride. A dedicated trail crew was even on-site Saturday to administer last minute refinements after practice.
Weekends at Dry Hill always feels like a gamble with the weather gods. But luckily, once again, the deluge stayed at bay. A misty start at the top of the mountain on Saturday was the closest mother nature got to showing her displeasure. Otherwise, cool gray mornings giving way to sun in the afternoon.
The awards ceremony saw familiar faces back on top of the podiums — Jill Kintner, Magnus Manson, and Luke Strobel placed first in their categories. The Sponsel Sombrero also made it out of hibernation to brighten the podium.
Full Results Here.
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