6 Hours of Washougal

This race took place at Washougal motorcross park. This is a world famous MX track that has been used for AMA national events for as long as I can remember. They have also opened it up for cycling events periodically but usually these events take place outside the moto season (spring/fall). Unfortunately loamy moto track doesn’t mix well will rainy northwest spring so against my better judgement Ryan and I headed north two hours after a week of showery weather.

After a month away from competition I needed to go full gas so if nothing else the long race would provide that opportunity. When we arrived it was apparent that the rain was coming and we weren’t disappointed as the sky opened immediately and stayed that way for most of the race. Luckily I had chosen to ride my Ibis Tranny single speed for what turned out to be apocalyptic mud conditions. The promoters event shortened the course shortened halfway through the race because long sections of single track became unrideable. Local Salem honch Ross Brody who has had a great year so far racing the XC series pushed me the whole way on his geared bike. I still managed to open a small gap and won the overall only to find out there were no prizes. Ultimately this meant hours of bike maintenance and driving for little more than a really crummy training ride. Ryan managed to win the single speed category too so that made it at “bragging rights” sweep for REALL Racing!