National AMA Enduro - Harrison

G's Dad raced his first national enduro August 6, 2006. He was in the company of pro riders and set to race one of the most difficult race routes there is on this circuit. And he was game. Unfortunately, he experienced clutch problems on the first leg and had to quit at the first gas stop. That didn't diminish his overall experience however, and he plans to race all five Michigan races next year.

His friend Devon chose this race as his first enduro. He too bowed out at the first gas stop--vowing to ride and train more in preparation for his next go at it in 2007.

G was totally in his element. Can you tell?



He loved every minute. Camping at the race staging area. With Devon along. G just loves when others camp with us. Makes him feel like "one of the guys" I think when there are more along. He also digs the excitement of race day. Dad takes him to the riders' meeting. Then we clamor to the starting line to watch the starts--timed at minute intervals. For this race, Mark, Barb and Darcie joined us as spectators. G immediately announced his intention to travel the spectator route with them--leaving Mom on her own to run the gas route. Ah well. I already know how I rate.

More than a few folks commented on G's perpetual dirtbike motor sounds. I'm beginning to think he could run on one part milk and one part oil.

Thanks to Mark for the following pictures. G's Dad is on the KTM and Devon is on the Kawasaki.

Devon's start.

Devon is in the green helmut.

Dad's start, just to the right of the center pole.

G's Dad shared the minute start with several pros. So when he wasn't the last one off the starting line, he purposefully shut down a bit to let them around. When I asked him why, he said he figured he'd just get that out of the way. They were sure to pass him at some point.

G's Dad in action.

Devon in action. Actually looking for G's Mom, thinking this spectator spot was the gas stop.

G discusses the race with Dad and Devon.