The Helmet Lady By Mike Rudolph

Size: px

Start display at page:

Download "The Helmet Lady By Mike Rudolph"

Jocelin Hampton
5 years ago
Views:

1 The Helmet Lady By Mike Rudolph Stop!!! Shut it off! Walk your bike back to your pit!! screamed the lady with the big mouth in the bright orange Stumpjumpers jacket. I stopped, shut off the bike and asked, What s the matter? No helmet no ride! she snapped back. It was at that point I realized that riding around the pits on my dirt bike without a helmet looked really stupid. Not to mention how stupid it looked to passers by having this lady yelling at a rider that didn t know his place. It is amazing how one incident like this can shape a person later in life. While at the time I didn t appreciate being yelled at, for any reason, I soon took notice of the idiots riding around without at least a helmet fastened to their head. It donned on me the idiot example being made. I thought some more about it, taking the stand that, it s my head, who was she to tell me to wear a helmet. My wife explained that since it was the Stumpjumpers event, if I cracked my head open being stupid, it was the Stumpjumpers and the paramedics that would have to deal with getting me medical assistance all because I was being stupid. Since then, I have become more involved with motorcycle organizations that promote and organize off-road events and believe me, dealing with idiots and their poor choices is enough to make you pull your hair out. So do the host club a favor, don t be a dwebe, just wear your brain bucket, it won t hurt. ORDER TODAY Pro-Wheel Racing Components Has the Following Products Available: Complete Billet Hub Sets for most MX and Offroad Motorcycles Spoke Sets for 18, 19, and 21 and most 65cc to 85cc Aluminum Ramps and Stands Billet Gas Caps and Lever Assemblies Handlebars XR/CRF-50 Rim Kits, Shocks and Handlebars Canopies: 10x10 and 10x20 Aluminum Frames Pro-Wheel Racing Components Tel: (360) Fax: (360)

That was the question on everyone s mind in the weeks leading up to the event until one week prior to the event when the Stumpjumpers M/C announced that it was on!

2 2008 FROST BITE By Don Larson Was it going to happen? Was the Frost Bite Grand Prix, the first points event of the NMA 2008 off road series, going to fall prey to the extreme winter conditions and have to be rescheduled? That was the question on everyone s mind in the weeks leading up to the event until one week prior to the event when the Stumpjumpers M/C announced that it was on! February 16 th, Reiter Trails Gold Bar, WA. Hot on the heels of the DNR s kick off meeting to begin the planning of Snohomish county s first official ORV area located in the Reiter Foothills, the Stumpjumpers M/C holds what promises to be one of, if not the, toughest off road races of the season. With the low snow level, the event would be staged out of the lower staging area under the power lines, the course would run an approximate 10 mile loop traveling east and west in the forests along the north and south sides of the power line corridor spanning the area. For those of you unfamiliar with Reiter Trails and to those east coast riders that might be reading this article, Reiter is easily one of the most technical and challenging riding areas in Washington state and will rival anything described as typical east coast terrain with an immense amount of rocks, roots, deep ruts, mud, and yes snow! The turnout was good with over 200 racers signing up and coming from as far away as Oregon and British Columbia to race in the event. The short course would start at 9:30 AM and the long course at 12:00 noon. The weather forecast called for overcast skies in the morning with little or no chance for rain, the temperature was 38 degrees and the conditions were perfect, well. as perfect as they get at Reiter in February. The racers appeared to be prepared with warm and waterproof gear being donned, extra gloves and goggles being staged in the pits and fresh knobbies with a good mix of trials tires mounted up on almost every bike I saw. As a sweep rider for the event I was able to spend all day on the course allowing me to provide you, the readers, with an in depth run down of what I can only describe as 10 miles of ear to ear grinning, snot running out of your nose and mud in your eyes western Washington off road racing! FLATOUT APRIL 5TH & 6TH, The start was held under the power lines just west

The first mile between the start and check point #1 was ran thru freshly reclaimed old single track, traction was optimum and riders were railing!

face deep mud and a technical up hill that took a lot of racers more than one or two attempts in order to clear the top.

3 GRAND PRIX of camp and sign up, the racers were met on their way to the start line by local DNR officials and Snohomish County sheriffs where each bike was inspected for current ORV tabs and spark arrestors. Lined up east to west they were started with dead engines and hands on helmets. The start headed north immediately into the trees where it funneled down to single track. The first mile between the start and check point #1 was ran thru freshly reclaimed old single track, traction was optimum and riders were railing! Leaving check point #1 located under the power lines, the racers headed south into the woods where they ran a mix of single track, quad and jeep trails, it was here in this section that riders would face deep mud and a technical up hill that took a lot of racers more than one or two attempts in order to clear the top. The course continued east thru the trees for about a half mile before the racers would get their first glimpse of pit row. After pit row, a quick jaunt thru the trees along the south side of the power lines would bring the racers out again under the power lines on what is commonly referred to as the power line road. The power line road is a popular trail amongst extreme rock crawling enthusiasts and the racers would soon understand why. A hundred yards down the road and the racers find themselves on a rock, a rock larger than most houses, it s wet and slippery, littered with other bikes and one guy in an orange coat with a camera and he doesn t want to put down his camera to help, (the photo ops were to priceless). Toward the top of this house sized rock was a gap, a large deep gap grooved into the rock that was giving riders fits as they tried to get over it or through it. I am fairly certain at this point that a lot of racers may have started wondering just what they had signed up for! After the rock gap the racers continued east under the power lines to the old mine shaft resembling a military bunker, after circling the mine shaft racers saw their first real downhill, an approximate 45 degree descent that was about 40 yards long with coarse sand and bowling ball sized rocks along the way. After navigating the downhill racers continued east under the power lines on a 4x4 trail that looks a lot like a dry river bed with large hills thrown in for good measure. FLATOUT APRIL 5TH & 6TH,

At approximately three miles in the course is diverted onto a very old section of single track that traverses a precarious ledge, some of which had washed away where course workers placed posts and

Just past the washout riders crossed their first and only bridge of the day that had been re-decked just the night before by the Stumpjumpers, here a heavy throttle hand would find you slip sliding

After the bridge, riders continued east to check point #2 at probably four miles in, where after receiving their punch they were sent into more dense forest single track before coming out near the

After passing course workers on the shoulder of the road, racers went right back into the trees for a quick challenging hill climb and into the woods on single track that paralells the dirt road

4 At approximately three miles in the course is diverted onto a very old section of single track that traverses a precarious ledge, some of which had washed away where course workers placed posts and barrier tape making racers aware of the danger. Just past the washout riders crossed their first and only bridge of the day that had been re-decked just the night before by the Stumpjumpers, here a heavy throttle hand would find you slip sliding your way into what looked like a very cold and deep section of water. After the bridge, riders continued east to check point #2 at probably four miles in, where after receiving their punch they were sent into more dense forest single track before coming out near the pond along side of Reiter road. After passing course workers on the shoulder of the road, racers went right back into the trees for a quick challenging hill climb and into the woods on single track that paralells the dirt road climbing up the mountain. Here at probably 5 miles in, the racers are gaining in elevation and patches of snow are everywhere as the course drops out of the trees onto a another 4x4 trail commonly referred to as roller coaster. Here the fun begins as racers realize that they have to hang a left up a slight grade covered with a solid blanket of 6 or more of snow! For the next three quarters of a mile the riders get a lot of practice riding a style that I call the tri pod style where your feet are used as outriggers gliding over the snow on each side of the bike. (Don t laugh, it works!) At about 6 miles in the racers arrive at check point #3. Still in the snow, check point #3 will be the highest elevation the racers see. From check point #3 the racers head west through deep ruts in the snow on an old grade that the Stumpjumpers have used as part of their Mini s courses for years but it becomes painfully evident after only a few hundred yards that this old grade has increased in difficulty from what would be suitable to use for a Mini s race to something capable of making grown men cry. The course heads toward lower ground as racers notice the snow is clearing and they are moving toward, once again, the power lines but before popping out of the woods under the power lines they are challenged by a very muddy area that forces them onto a tough short hill full of roots and holes. It was here that I noticed some racer s smiles were replaced with looks of pure exhaustion and frustration. From here the course crosses under the power lines picking up a very short section of 4x4 trail and then taking a left into the trees on a challenging section of single track ending with a water crossing close to the upper staging area. At about 7 miles in the racers wind up on the cable trail or Sam s trail, a very, very tough trail covered with angled tree roots, large rocks and off camber up hill turns. Before the end of Sam s trail the racers must work their way through a small water crossing and up a very narrow switch back paved with cinder blocks offering enough traction to cause more than a few racers and bikes to loop out! Sam s trail ends on an old mining road used for years by logging companies, the race course continues west going up the road for a while before landing the racers FLATOUT APRIL 5TH & 6TH,

the AA Downhill.. The AA Downhill is called Packhorse by the trials riders and rumor has it that the 1976 World Trials Round held at Reiter, used it as a loop trail!

As the riders exit the AA Downhill they find themselves on the dirt road above the race staging area and within eyesight of their truck, it is here that I am sure a lot them start thinking that they

5 at check point #4. From check point #4 the riders continue heading west into the forest where they are met with sections of gnarly tight tree riding before turning south and heading into an area of Willow trees and a brief section of old two track. Here at about 8 miles in the racers are probably exhausted and wondering how far away the finish check is but their thoughts are soon interrupted by what will be their biggest challenge of the day the AA Downhill.. The AA Downhill is called Packhorse by the trials riders and rumor has it that the 1976 World Trials Round held at Reiter, used it as a loop trail! There were volunteers all along this mile section of sheer rock drops and narrow trail cheering and helping riders along. As the riders exit the AA Downhill they find themselves on the dirt road above the race staging area and within eyesight of their truck, it is here that I am sure a lot them start thinking that they are going to survive! A tough, sheer rock down hill off the road and a bad section of muddy single track brings the racers to the end of a grueling lap. Here the question of the day was debated and answered Do I do another one?. Quite a few short course classes were won at this race with just one lap completed while the average short course racer completed 2 laps and the hardcores were able to get in 3. The majority of long course racers finished with 3 to 5 laps. It was my opinion and perspective that most everyone enjoyed themselves and finished this race with a huge sense of accomplishment. A big thanks to everyone that came out and raced in the event, event sponsors RV Town and Everett Powersports, and to the Stumpjumpers M/C for another quality event! Remember - WHAT DOESN T KILL YOU, ONLY MAKES YOU A BETTER RIDER! RESULTS Over All Winner Kevin Bailey AA - 1. Kevin Bailey 2. Geoff Nelson 3. John Beal Open A - 1. Rob Lewis 2. Jake Hatfield 3. Cory Durkin 200 A - 1. Brian Bennett 2. Rick Russell 3. Fred Brownfield Vet A - 1. Bill Baldwin 2. Dave Sheets 3. Phil Stevens Senior A 1. Chuck Bolton 2. Steve Svedarsky 3. Ken Dyck Open B 1. Matt McTavish 2. Chris Lathrop 3. Dale Blanken 200 B 1. Kyle Phillips 2. Brent Larsen 3. Bryan Svedarsky Vet B 1. Loren Tonsgard 2. Brian Cornman 3. Jason Foreman Senior B 1. John Starkweather 2. Steve Latimer 3. Jeff Tasky Super Senior B 1. Guy Laycraft 2. Daniel Brocker 3. Al Roehl Masters 1. Jerry Allen Women B 1. Karla Brandt 2. Ashley Tonsgard 3. Leanne Foreman 15 & Under 1. Jeremy Blanken 2. David Brock 3. Jake Hardenbergh Senior C 1. JR VanProyen 2. Allen Clarke 3. John Duncan Super Senior C 1. Bob Koenig 2. Chris Krauer 3. Gary Turner Vet C 1. Jason Bottenberg 2. Dusty Rostad 3. Arne Koenig Open C 1. Travis Powell 2. Mike Topp 3. Mike Wilcox 200 C 1. Jake O Brien 2. Colby Larson 3. Matthew Brenchley Women C 1. DeeAnn Svedarsky 2. Alecia Smith 3. Emily Scheller Sportsman 1. Edward Pfirter 2. Loren Frei

NOW OPEN IN MONROE THE NORTHWEST S NEWEST DEALER MOTORSPORTS

BURGERS & FRIES cafe and espresso bar HUGE INVENTORY!

ST SE, Monroe WA 98272 www.tacomamotorsports.

7 NOW OPEN IN MONROE THE NORTHWEST S NEWEST DEALER MOTORSPORTS YAMAHA HUNGRY? BURGERS & FRIES cafe and espresso bar HUGE INVENTORY!!! Full Parts and Service Department with a Great Staff adventuremotorsports.net Across HWY 2 From Evergreen Speedway in Monroe Tye ST SE, Monroe WA Serving The Basin Since 1965 Rob Sole Owner 17 H Street SW Quincy, WA Fax chetshonda@nwi.net 4701 Center St., Tacoma, WA 98409

8 R

9 Lynnwood Motoplex HWY 99 Lynnwood, WA

STUMPJUMPERS SPRING 100 MILE DESERT RACE OVERALL CHAMPIONS 2007 Kevin Parks KTM 2006 Kevin Parks KTM 2005 Jonah

Street Honda 1999 Jonah Street Honda 1998 Rick Bozarth KTM 1997 Rick Bozarth KTM 1996 Rick Bozarth KTM 1995 Rich

Jason Dahners Suzuki 1989 Jason Dahners Honda 1988 Brent Richardson Honda 1987 Rich Binckley Yamaha 1986 Ron Lemon

Elledge Husqvarna 1980 Rich Binckley Yamaha 1979 Rich Binckley Yamaha 1978 Blane Elledge Husqvarna 1977 Ken Bailey

Ken Habeck Husqvarna 1971 Ken Habeck Husqvarna 1970 George Wise Husqvarna Kevin Parks - 2007 Overall Champion Kevin

10 STUMPJUMPERS SPRING 100 MILE DESERT RACE OVERALL CHAMPIONS 2007 Kevin Parks KTM 2006 Kevin Parks KTM 2005 Jonah Street KTM 2004 Ben Hale Kawasaki 2003 Phil Stevens Suzuki 2002 Rick Bozarth KTM 2001 Jonah Street Honda 2000 Jonah Street Honda 1999 Jonah Street Honda 1998 Rick Bozarth KTM 1997 Rick Bozarth KTM 1996 Rick Bozarth KTM 1995 Rich Binckley KTM 1994 Nat Wilder Honda 1993 Dan Richardson Honda 1992 Jason Dahners Suzuki 1991 Nat Wilder Honda 1990 Jason Dahners Suzuki 1989 Jason Dahners Honda 1988 Brent Richardson Honda 1987 Rich Binckley Yamaha 1986 Ron Lemon Yamaha 1985 Rich Binckley Yamaha 1984 Race Canceled 1983 Ron Dillon Yamaha 1982 Rich Binckley Yamaha 1981 Blane Elledge Husqvarna 1980 Rich Binckley Yamaha 1979 Rich Binckley Yamaha 1978 Blane Elledge Husqvarna 1977 Ken Bailey Husqvarna 1976 Rich Binckley Yamaha 1975 Greg Harwood Yamaha 1974 Ed Dolder Husqvarna 1973 Ken Habeck Husqvarna 1972 Ken Habeck Husqvarna 1971 Ken Habeck Husqvarna 1970 George Wise Husqvarna Kevin Parks Overall Champion Kevin Parks Overall Champion Jonah Street Overall Champion FLATOUT APRIL 5TH & 6TH, Ben Hale Overall Champion

AA/PRO ( RIDERS) NAME BIKE

AA/PRO ( RIDERS) NAME BIKE NAME OF EVENT: Frostbite Hare Scrambles Date: Feb 4, 2007 Northwest Motorcycle Association Sponsoring Club: Stumpjumpers M/C Location: 12 mile mountain loop @ Reiter Trails LONG COURSE AA/PRO ( RIDERS)