Aaron Bradford - Blog: May 2011

Every year the month of May guarantees two things, unpredictable weather and quality racing. For the last two years the Santa Cruz crew and I rolled up to the Lemurian Classic and Ashland Spring Thaw with the goal of putting up solid results along with having a good time in the process. Staying true to our philosophy, we did exactly that.

Paul from Rocklobster loaned me his personal singlespeed mtb for Lemurian which I raced in the Pro XC to a rewarding finish. It's always exciting riding new bikes and Paul's was no exception; he definitely knows how to build a sweet machine. Bike racing, post race burritos, a dip in the snow melt fed lake, followed by keeping warm by the campfire with some whiskey in Whiskeytown. These are just a reasons why I enjoy mountain bike trips with good friends.

Two weeks after Lemurian the crew piled in Jeff's new truck and motored up to Ashland Oregon for the Spring Thaw. A two race format, the weekend featured an XC race on Saturday and a DH race on Sunday. For the XC we had dry and mild weather. I was back on a bike with gears and after 20 minutes of racing I found myself off the front with Chris Sheppard. At the finish, Chris took the win, I came in shortly after with Scott coming in just moments later. No better way to start the weekend than with some podium time.

Looking at the weather report the night before, we knew we would be in for some rain and possibly light snow. We woke up to light rain and cooler temps. By the time we reached the four corners parking lot and the start of the DH, we found ourselves trying to keep warm and dry in snow/rain mix. I was the first rider out of the starting gate and put together a solid but conservative run which landed me a podium spot in 5th. Jeff was 6th and Scott rounded out the top 10. Thanks to Laura and Marjorie for letting us stay at your place! Next up for the Santa Cruz crew, Ashland 12 mile. Hope to see you all there!