First 2 hours is basically gravel road climb with about 5,000 feet of climbing. Rode conservatively, felt good, and was riding with Tyler Miller who was on my wheel for 3rd place. Jerry came back on us just before single track and was only about 20 seconds down.
I followed Tyler down the single track and could tell I was faster. I was expecting Jerry to catch us any second. Thankfully Tyler missed a turn and I was able to let it go on the descent and never saw him again (kinda).
Back to gravel road climb and saw another rider coming up on me just before single track again and I thought for sure it was Jerry. It lit a fire under me and I gave it some extra effort hitting the dirt. BTW it was Tyler and not Jerry. This time I really never did see Tyler again.
Hit upper Alpine/Jedi and felt great on the descent. Held it steady heading up to Tire Mountain and then felt great on the descent. I just felt locked in. No mistakes.
Caught my Portland buddy, John Weathers, at the bottom of Tire Mountain/Clover Patch, just in time for the next and last gravel road climb. John is a big time stud, and between catching John and dropping Tyler, I knew I was having a great day. John put the hammer down on the last gravel climb and I rode my pace. John put about 20 seconds on me before hitting lower Alpine for the last descent to the finish. I quickly caught John and we just flew down Alpine. So much fun to follow the guy in front of you and read his lines. Oh my that was fun! I was happy to be on the podium and finish/ride with a good friend.
I felt strong at the finish and actually feel like I may have rode too conservatively. But we all know how that goes. When you are on those days feel easy. And once you go redline it is easy to go over the edge really quick.
I highly recommend the Oakridge CreamPuff/Fritter race. The trails are epic (long descents, flowy, exposure, beautiful with old growth, numerous switchbacks, it just keeps coming at you). Soo much fun!!
-Wayne Tonning
