Western’s Mountain Bike Team visited Angel Fire Resort in New Mexico this previous weekend to compete in Downhill, Dual Slalom, Cross Country and Short Track Cross Country races. The Rocky Mountain Collegiate Cycling Conference (RMCCC) provided hundreds of riders with a chance to prove themselves in some of the most intense races of the season.

Tim Burr proving himself in the Men’s B Downhill race.

Western’s racers were up bright and early training for their respective races. On the first day of races, Cross Country riders started off the day, going up against determined racers and the brisk morning air. Spectators and fellow riders then made their way to the Dual Slalom track to cheer on the racers.

Zoe Smith racing through the woods in Women’s A Cross Country.

The next morning, the Short Track races took place. Racers were intrigued by the urban-style track that Angel Fire had to offer. The track consisted of a downhill section which led to an exciting staircase feature. Following the stair section, riders rode up an incline to the top of the track and then repeat this process until the finish. Once the Short Track races were finished, the Downhill race began on Angel Fire’s notorious World Cup Trail. The trail was one of the longer courses of the season, boasting a few rock gardens, several drops and amazing turns. When racers reached the bottom of the track, there was a large jump which was placed just above the finish line. Western riders took note of every detail in the track in order to improve their performances.

Sean O’Donnell introducing a new tactic in order to save time in Men’s A Short Track

Western athletes provided outstanding performances across the board. Evan Lehr dominated Downhill in Men’s C, coming in first with over four seconds to spare. Graham Ruhmann hustled his way into a fantastic third place in Men’s A Short Track Cross Country. Men’s B Downhill racer, Tim Burr, finished in an excellent third place. More results are available at the USAC Website

Jimi Averill flying to the finish in Men’s A Downhill.

Written by David Dieckhaus. Photos by David Dieckhaus and Preston Hoffman. More photos from the event may be found on the Mountain Sports Flickr page.