Single Track Sunday
Place: French Creek State Park, PA (On the Rocks @ French Creek)
Ridden: May 2014
Rocks. Hot. Bugs. Fun. Those 4 words sum up the endurance race for Joël and I at French Creek State Park, the race being called "On the Rocks @ French Creek", another race in the MASS series.
After a few mishaps in my direction giving skills, we arrived at the race venue a little later than planned. It didn't put a kink in our race prep, it just meant that team mate Jed had already put up the team tent and tables; we were supposed to arrive early to help him, but obviously we didn't. Once again, sorry about that Jed. 
Registration and race prep went as planned, warm-up consisted of taking Cliff out on some of the trails. Wow, does he love to run with the bikes. Before we knew it, it was time for the race to start.
This week was a mass start, meaning all the endurance racers (men, women, masters, single speed) all started together. Both Joël and I prefer this, no waiting around for each class to start individually. The race began with about a one mile climb on a gravel road, a great way to spread out the field. Once entering the single track at the top of the climb the fun began. Lots and lots of rocks, fast descents and technical climbs; a technically challenging but rewarding course. The occasional log to ride over was thrown in here and there, as was the occasional bridge to ride on. One short hike-a-bike on a very steep climb was included that everyone had to walk. The last mile of the course was on a paved road; this was a recent change due to rain storms during the week causing some trails to be not suitable for riding. All in all even with the technical aspects of the course, it was a fast course that flowed well.
As usual, being out there is ultimately about having fun and smiling the entire time. And yes, if we can go fast at the same time its great. I put in five laps while Joël did six. We rode together for a bit when he lapped me. Joël knew other guys were behind him so after some quick chatting he had to press on. It was nice to ride together, even if for a short period of time.
We both had good races, Joël placing 3rd and I was 2nd. Other Giant racers Jed, Jordan, April, and Andy were racing also; Jed endurance and the others XC. The overall theme of the day was that everyone thought the course was challenging but fun.
Check out the video below to see what the rocks at French Creek are all about.
- written recap by Jess
- images and video by Joël
- fun time exploring by Cliff