Polson Cyclocross - Alex & the Polson Crew

The Polson Crew is on fire. The Seeleys, Campbells, 5VV riders and Volunteers did an excellent job making the Polson Cyclocross race a huge success. A great course complete with the "British Open" feel. High winds, cold temps, and beautiful Ireland like scenery. Special features included a Cross and Tie Race (one bike two people), First Timers Race, and post race feast! If Matt and 5VV are willing I think Polson CX will be a long lasting event.

Racing
I didn't envy the first racers of the day. The wind was blowing and the sun had yet to shine. The ladies race was highlighted by the Zickovich Ladies and Campbell. Campbell was fueled by performing in front of a home town crowd and took the victory. Julie Z looked strong in second and never gave up to much ground to LC.

Nice racing in the men's 4 race. Four super strong 4's duked it out. Strongman Brent Ruby came up with the victory. He was never able to let up, because Great Divide rider Mark Brooks was constantly charging in 2nd. Also of note was third place John Bardsley on the mtb. 4th place Erik Horn was killing the technical sections of the course including riding up the run-up.

Masters B was won by Pat Scharfe who was right in the middle of the men's 4 battle.

The men's 1,2,3 race was scored separately. The men 3 hadn't gotten face time since Greased Lightning. In a much anticipated battle Alex G and Bob Presta didn't disappoint. Alex came out on top. His form is starting to peak towards nationals......very impressive. Bob did all he could including riding the run-up and a big last lap charge that put him a bike length behind at the line. Riding great in 3rd was Tim Noonan. 4th was promoter Seeley. The cat 3 race was hot. I loved racing for a place. Bob was obviously out of reach, so it came down to a battle for 2nd. Mtcx Videographer Dan Pierce was a good pick for 2nd, as was Connelly, Flathead Russ, and JMills. After a crazy first couple laps the dust settled and I had major flashbacks of Missoula #5. Me riding with Tack and Fiore. Our different skills complement eachother. Tack in off season form, Fiore the consistent technical master, and myself putting in surges. With two teammates I was super fortunate to hold off the Brown Bear Pierce, Cman, and Flathead Russ. Tack and Fiore didn't know about the cat 3 pack challenge........but I sure did. I took 2nd and 3rd was Brown Bear Pierce. Two teammates on a super windy course was super lucky.

Great racing in the masters A. The perennial master A killer Chance Cooke was racing....and he was flying. He took the win. A hot battle for 2nd settled into John W, followed by Gaertner, and Cochran. The masters A look prepared for a hot showing at nationals. I only know of a couple masters attending, but really the full MT fleet should go. WOW, we have fast masters. Shout out to Flathead Cycling who had the biggest squad there (Noonie, Cooke, Gaertner, Greenburg, Muller, and Russ).

Great Montana Cyclocross season. Look for more wrap-up and nationals preview stuff in the next couple weeks. Tomorrow is JDoll's Salt Lake City Race Report.

Photos by Pat Scharfe