I'm updating my 5th Gear SmugMug page as the winter continues, getting to races I might have skipped, missed or forgotten about posting.
Keep checking back. I try to post something new every Monday at http://www.5thgearmedia.smugmug.com/ and as always, check beck here every Wednesday for a new helpful hint.
Cheers!
- Suzie Q
10/29/2010
10/27/2010
Movember
I did my part, now you boys do your's!
Join a team! Start a team! Or, even better yet, donate to Team IMX! It's all in the name of good fun, fine facial grooming and finding a cure for prostate cancer.
Join a team! Start a team! Or, even better yet, donate to Team IMX! It's all in the name of good fun, fine facial grooming and finding a cure for prostate cancer.
It's all in the Presentation
Want to know what the number one fear, across all national, ethnic, religious, gender and age gaps is? No, it's not clowns, but good guess.
Public speaking.
Yeah, we all remember in grade school when we had to get up in front of everyone and make five minute speeches, or in high school when we had to do ISU presentations and talk in front of everyone. For some of us those memories are much fresher than they are for others, but I'm sure we can all agree that we each have a horror story or six about public speaking.
Perhaps this is why so many motocross and off road riders perform wonderfully on the track, but then come to a screeching halt as soon as they get on the podium. There are some super stars out there, many of the American teams and Europeans have people who work with them specifically to make them more friendly and presentable while in the public eye. Here in Canada, that luxury isn't available to most riders, and certainly not to the amateurs.
There are three people who come to mind, personally, when I think of excellent podium presence. Now, remember, I'm an off road specialist, so they are all enduro riders, from the Canadian Enduro Championship series. Jason Schrage, Shane Cuthbertson and Guy Giroux are all wonderful on the podium, and all for different reasons.
Cuthbertson is another good podium personality, as I like to call them. While he might not have the Gerber Baby dimples that Schrage has, he is witty on the podium and presents himself, and his list of sponsors, well. I can remember one particular presentation where he poked fun at a fellow racer who had troubles remembering his sponsor list the day before. “I'll show you how it's done,” the good natured barb started, and Cuthbertson whipped out the race series program, which had all of the top riders, and their sponsors, listed in the front. He then went on to read his sponsor list right from the program. For those of you who follow off road, the Corner Grass Racing Team, of which Cuthbertson is a member, have a lot of sponsors. The crowd, and the rider, laughed.
Without being too critical, there are also some pretty bad examples of podium speeches in the CECs, and I can think of three riders, all at different points in their lives, from whom lessons on what not do to can be learned.
Being prepared is important; know who your sponsors are and have a rough idea of what you'd like to say. “Hmm...” “Uh...” and “Aahh...” don't make you look like a winner. You're on the podium! Clearly you're fast. Being shy and overly quiet isn't an option at this point. If you've won a spot in the top three, assume you've earned it. Speak up, be prepared and know what you're going to say. If you have to, practice your podium speech if you have to.
Another pet peeve of mine is when I see a rider stare at their feet while they speak. What this tells me is a) the rider is uncomfortable with the spot light and b) doesn't feel like they deserve to be where they are. Look into the audience, with your head held high. You're in the top three, you should be proud. Again, sometimes this is caused by nervousness. I know some riders who have found wearing sunglasses while on the podium helps with this problem. It allows them to focus on an object, a loved one in the crowd or a tree in the distance, without looking like a creeper or space case.
Also, be aware that there are probably cameras in the audience; don’t be surprised if you make a funny face and it ends up on the internet.
Forgetting your sponsors is a big no-no. One can be forgiven, but after that, don’t make the mistake again. Do what Cuthbertson did if you have to, have a small note card with your sponsors listed on it. Just something small, 4 x 6 inches is a good size, with your sponsor’s names, or better yet, their logos, on it.
A final thought: Remember, everyone you’re speaking to is a potential friend and supporter. The crowd is there to watch you, there is no reason to be afraid. And, just like they said in grade school, practice makes perfect.
Thanks to Adam Millson, Brian Wojnarowski, Chris Van Hove, Julian Cerny, Jason Schrage, Lee Fryberger, Guy Giroux and Geoff Nelson for letting me use their sometimes funny faces. Thanks, Gentlemen.
Public speaking.
Yeah, we all remember in grade school when we had to get up in front of everyone and make five minute speeches, or in high school when we had to do ISU presentations and talk in front of everyone. For some of us those memories are much fresher than they are for others, but I'm sure we can all agree that we each have a horror story or six about public speaking.
Perhaps this is why so many motocross and off road riders perform wonderfully on the track, but then come to a screeching halt as soon as they get on the podium. There are some super stars out there, many of the American teams and Europeans have people who work with them specifically to make them more friendly and presentable while in the public eye. Here in Canada, that luxury isn't available to most riders, and certainly not to the amateurs.
There are three people who come to mind, personally, when I think of excellent podium presence. Now, remember, I'm an off road specialist, so they are all enduro riders, from the Canadian Enduro Championship series. Jason Schrage, Shane Cuthbertson and Guy Giroux are all wonderful on the podium, and all for different reasons.
Jason Schrage on the microphone. He has a natural style and friendliness that people like.
Schrage is highly marketable; he's a PR person's dream! Aside from being attractive in a non-threatening way, and a fire fighter (read: Hero Job!), he is well spoken and articulate. When he gets on the podium, which is often, he never forgets to thank the organizers, his competition, his sponsors, and perhaps most importantly, his wife Rochelle. He speaks clearly, and audibly into the microphone, when there is one, and doesn't mutter or stare at his feet. While the other riders are saying their piece, he is either smiling to the crowd, or smiling and listening to what they have to say. Cuthbertson is another good podium personality, as I like to call them. While he might not have the Gerber Baby dimples that Schrage has, he is witty on the podium and presents himself, and his list of sponsors, well. I can remember one particular presentation where he poked fun at a fellow racer who had troubles remembering his sponsor list the day before. “I'll show you how it's done,” the good natured barb started, and Cuthbertson whipped out the race series program, which had all of the top riders, and their sponsors, listed in the front. He then went on to read his sponsor list right from the program. For those of you who follow off road, the Corner Grass Racing Team, of which Cuthbertson is a member, have a lot of sponsors. The crowd, and the rider, laughed.
E2 podium, with Wojnarowski, Schrage and Cuthbertson.
Sometimes making memorable podium speeches, ones that are remembered for good reasons rather than how horrible they are (I'll bring up three examples of riders who, while extremely talented on their bikes, could use to learn a few things about being on a podium later). Guy Giroux is an example of that. While no one speech stands out, one does get the feeling that he's talking to everyone in the audience as if they're a personal friend. Much like I pointed out in my last article, where I used Giroux's press releases as an example, his style is very intimate. Without being too critical, there are also some pretty bad examples of podium speeches in the CECs, and I can think of three riders, all at different points in their lives, from whom lessons on what not do to can be learned.
Being prepared is important; know who your sponsors are and have a rough idea of what you'd like to say. “Hmm...” “Uh...” and “Aahh...” don't make you look like a winner. You're on the podium! Clearly you're fast. Being shy and overly quiet isn't an option at this point. If you've won a spot in the top three, assume you've earned it. Speak up, be prepared and know what you're going to say. If you have to, practice your podium speech if you have to.
Another pet peeve of mine is when I see a rider stare at their feet while they speak. What this tells me is a) the rider is uncomfortable with the spot light and b) doesn't feel like they deserve to be where they are. Look into the audience, with your head held high. You're in the top three, you should be proud. Again, sometimes this is caused by nervousness. I know some riders who have found wearing sunglasses while on the podium helps with this problem. It allows them to focus on an object, a loved one in the crowd or a tree in the distance, without looking like a creeper or space case.
Also, be aware that there are probably cameras in the audience; don’t be surprised if you make a funny face and it ends up on the internet.
You don't want to look like this.
This is better. Notice they're all smiling, all faces are turned towards the crowd.
Guy Giroux is certainly happy with his first E3 and overall victory; he conveys his excitement to the crowd.
Finally: Keep it short. There’s a big temptation among riders to thank everyone who has ever helped or smiled kindly upon you. This is all well and good, but it makes for a very boring presentation. There are certainly people who should be thanked: organizers, land owners, family and, obviously, your sponsors. Other than that, don’t worry about Mr. Johnston your neighbor growing up, or the guy who pumps your gas. Forgetting your sponsors is a big no-no. One can be forgiven, but after that, don’t make the mistake again. Do what Cuthbertson did if you have to, have a small note card with your sponsors listed on it. Just something small, 4 x 6 inches is a good size, with your sponsor’s names, or better yet, their logos, on it.
A final thought: Remember, everyone you’re speaking to is a potential friend and supporter. The crowd is there to watch you, there is no reason to be afraid. And, just like they said in grade school, practice makes perfect.
Thanks to Adam Millson, Brian Wojnarowski, Chris Van Hove, Julian Cerny, Jason Schrage, Lee Fryberger, Guy Giroux and Geoff Nelson for letting me use their sometimes funny faces. Thanks, Gentlemen.
10/20/2010
Reporting Results
In my last article I touched briefly on the importance of race reports as they relate to getting new sponsors. True, they can be helpful when pursuing new sponsorships, but their intended purpose is to allow sponsors you already have to know how your season is going, and serve as a chance to promote your sponsors in the media.
There are a few ways you can go about designing and submitting your race reports, and that's what this article will cover. I will break the process down into three stages: Layout, Content and Distribution, which mirrors the way I go about putting together the race reports.
Some riders find it easier to farm out the process of writing their race reports, which is fine. I write reports for several Ontario riders. It works out well for both parties as they receive professional quality race reports/press releases to send to sponsors and media outlets, but do not have to put the time required for them to achieve these results on their own. On my end, I get paid for my work and enjoy a little bit of publicity and exposure. Ultimately, the needs of the rider(s) and myself are met by our arrangements.
I have included two examples of press releases I have made for the 2010 season. One was for Lockhart's Suzuki rider Chris Van Hove, and the other for Yamaha/Machine Racing Off Road's team of Brian Wojnarowski and Adam Millson.
Yamaha 09-13-10
Press release for Yamaha/Machine Racing's Wojo and Cheeseburger.
Content:
Content is the most important part of the report. It should be concise, include one to two images, all of the sponsors (in my .pdf files I name the sponsors in the final paragraph of every report, as well as include their logos in the layout of the file itself.). Be logical; start at the beginning of the race and go through to the end, then let your sponsors know when you'll be racing next, and then thank everyone who needs to be thanked.
Try to be a little more creative than “It was hot. Got hole shot. Led whole race. Won. Thanks.” When I write the text (otherwise known as “copy”) out in a word processor before putting it into the layout, I usually aim for 250 to 350 words for a single day event, and 500 to 750 for two day events (such as the CECs or the Cord).
Because I am not the rider, I use third person to describe the events that went on. I would suggest that even if you plan on writing your own race reports, that you write your copy in third person. It looks more professional and impartial, in my opinion. Avoid over using slang words where possible, and under no circumstance should you swear!
That said, there are some riders, Guy Giroux for instance, who writes in first person. Many people love his race reports because it's like talking to him. He gets away with them because he is Giroux. People know how his voice sounds, the patterns of his speech, and are able to put his reports into that frame when they read them.
Your best bet is to simply write in third person, and make sure that you proof read two or three times. Try reading it aloud; you're more likely to catch awkward sentences and bad grammar that way.
Remember: This is your link to your sponsors; you want it to be as good as it possibly can be.
Mansfield 05-08-10
Press release for Lockhart's Suzuki rider Chris Van Hove.
Layout:
For layout, there is a lot of personal preference that comes into play. Reports I do for more serious personalities (ie Wojo) are different from the ones I do for more relaxed riders (ie CVH). I try to include a little of the rider's personality in the layout.
It's a personal preference as to whether you'd like to do landscape or portrait style .pdfs. I use both. As said before, I usually aim for 250 to 350 words for a single day event, and 500 to 750 for a two day event. This translates into one A3 (or standard) .pdf page for a single day event, or two for a two day event.
For some riders, I use a background photo, usually an image that's faded to about 10% transparency. Commonly, the photos I select to use in the background are either out of focus, of the rider's back, or extreme close ups of the bike, but still a very interesting photograph. I find that including a background image, and fading it into the text, creates interest throughout the page and draws the eye around the page. I'll explain why this is important shortly.
For the main photo, I prefer an action shot; something that really draws the reader's attention and showcases the rider's talent.
As I mentioned before, in the final paragraph I always thank the rider's sponsors, but I also use their logos in the layout. Normally, I place the logos in groups of similar size/shape, along the bottom of the report, under the text and photographs. This is why I find it important to include a background photo in many of my reports.
A little note on format:
When I create a race report/press release for a rider, they receive up to four files. One is a final .pdf, one is a Word document of the text, and then they receive one or two of the photos that were used in the making of the .pdf file. In the next part, I will explain why I do this.
Distribution:
Now, who gets your press release depends on what level of rider you are, and how well you perform.
Obviously, regardless of how you perform you should be sending your press releases to sponsors to let them know how you finished. If you DNF’ed an event, you might want to down play or simply opt to not do a report for those races, unless it is due to a medical issue. If you injure yourself, let your sponsors know what happened and when you will be expected to return to racing.
If you’re a top rider in your class, you should also be sending your reports to the manufacturer you ride for, regardless of whether or not you receive direct sponsorship from them, and the media outlets. For motocross and enduro riders in Canada this will include, but is in no way limited to the following:
- Inside MotoX and Off Road
- Off Road Motorcycles.ca
- MXP Magazine
- DMX
- Local/City newspapers
The reason I split the file into three parts, photos, text and .pdf, is to make it easier to post on a website/blog. The easier you make it to share your information with others, the more likely people will be to forward and post your race reports.
You might also consider creating your own blog or website and posting regular updates there. On your blog you can post updates on your training, your conditioning, any local events/schools you’re hosting, etc. Basically anything that isn’t racing can go there, and those who are interested can check up on you.
This concludes my little how to on race reports. Check in next Wednesday for my next helpful article on podium presentations. Many excellent and fast riders have no problem getting to the podium, but once they get there they don’t know how to act, or what to say.
Like this post? Tweet it! Follow me on Twitter @SuzieQ_484, and be sure to check out IMX's page too for the latest in Moto and Off Road news @MXandOffRoad.
Tweet
There are a few ways you can go about designing and submitting your race reports, and that's what this article will cover. I will break the process down into three stages: Layout, Content and Distribution, which mirrors the way I go about putting together the race reports.
Some riders find it easier to farm out the process of writing their race reports, which is fine. I write reports for several Ontario riders. It works out well for both parties as they receive professional quality race reports/press releases to send to sponsors and media outlets, but do not have to put the time required for them to achieve these results on their own. On my end, I get paid for my work and enjoy a little bit of publicity and exposure. Ultimately, the needs of the rider(s) and myself are met by our arrangements.
I have included two examples of press releases I have made for the 2010 season. One was for Lockhart's Suzuki rider Chris Van Hove, and the other for Yamaha/Machine Racing Off Road's team of Brian Wojnarowski and Adam Millson.
Yamaha 09-13-10
Press release for Yamaha/Machine Racing's Wojo and Cheeseburger.
Content:
Content is the most important part of the report. It should be concise, include one to two images, all of the sponsors (in my .pdf files I name the sponsors in the final paragraph of every report, as well as include their logos in the layout of the file itself.). Be logical; start at the beginning of the race and go through to the end, then let your sponsors know when you'll be racing next, and then thank everyone who needs to be thanked.
Try to be a little more creative than “It was hot. Got hole shot. Led whole race. Won. Thanks.” When I write the text (otherwise known as “copy”) out in a word processor before putting it into the layout, I usually aim for 250 to 350 words for a single day event, and 500 to 750 for two day events (such as the CECs or the Cord).
Because I am not the rider, I use third person to describe the events that went on. I would suggest that even if you plan on writing your own race reports, that you write your copy in third person. It looks more professional and impartial, in my opinion. Avoid over using slang words where possible, and under no circumstance should you swear!
That said, there are some riders, Guy Giroux for instance, who writes in first person. Many people love his race reports because it's like talking to him. He gets away with them because he is Giroux. People know how his voice sounds, the patterns of his speech, and are able to put his reports into that frame when they read them.
Your best bet is to simply write in third person, and make sure that you proof read two or three times. Try reading it aloud; you're more likely to catch awkward sentences and bad grammar that way.
Remember: This is your link to your sponsors; you want it to be as good as it possibly can be.
Mansfield 05-08-10
Press release for Lockhart's Suzuki rider Chris Van Hove.
Layout:
For layout, there is a lot of personal preference that comes into play. Reports I do for more serious personalities (ie Wojo) are different from the ones I do for more relaxed riders (ie CVH). I try to include a little of the rider's personality in the layout.
It's a personal preference as to whether you'd like to do landscape or portrait style .pdfs. I use both. As said before, I usually aim for 250 to 350 words for a single day event, and 500 to 750 for a two day event. This translates into one A3 (or standard) .pdf page for a single day event, or two for a two day event.
For some riders, I use a background photo, usually an image that's faded to about 10% transparency. Commonly, the photos I select to use in the background are either out of focus, of the rider's back, or extreme close ups of the bike, but still a very interesting photograph. I find that including a background image, and fading it into the text, creates interest throughout the page and draws the eye around the page. I'll explain why this is important shortly.
For the main photo, I prefer an action shot; something that really draws the reader's attention and showcases the rider's talent.
As I mentioned before, in the final paragraph I always thank the rider's sponsors, but I also use their logos in the layout. Normally, I place the logos in groups of similar size/shape, along the bottom of the report, under the text and photographs. This is why I find it important to include a background photo in many of my reports.
A little note on format:
When I create a race report/press release for a rider, they receive up to four files. One is a final .pdf, one is a Word document of the text, and then they receive one or two of the photos that were used in the making of the .pdf file. In the next part, I will explain why I do this.
Distribution:
Now, who gets your press release depends on what level of rider you are, and how well you perform.
Obviously, regardless of how you perform you should be sending your press releases to sponsors to let them know how you finished. If you DNF’ed an event, you might want to down play or simply opt to not do a report for those races, unless it is due to a medical issue. If you injure yourself, let your sponsors know what happened and when you will be expected to return to racing.
If you’re a top rider in your class, you should also be sending your reports to the manufacturer you ride for, regardless of whether or not you receive direct sponsorship from them, and the media outlets. For motocross and enduro riders in Canada this will include, but is in no way limited to the following:
- Inside MotoX and Off Road
- Off Road Motorcycles.ca
- MXP Magazine
- DMX
- Local/City newspapers
The reason I split the file into three parts, photos, text and .pdf, is to make it easier to post on a website/blog. The easier you make it to share your information with others, the more likely people will be to forward and post your race reports.
You might also consider creating your own blog or website and posting regular updates there. On your blog you can post updates on your training, your conditioning, any local events/schools you’re hosting, etc. Basically anything that isn’t racing can go there, and those who are interested can check up on you.
This concludes my little how to on race reports. Check in next Wednesday for my next helpful article on podium presentations. Many excellent and fast riders have no problem getting to the podium, but once they get there they don’t know how to act, or what to say.
Like this post? Tweet it! Follow me on Twitter @SuzieQ_484, and be sure to check out IMX's page too for the latest in Moto and Off Road news @MXandOffRoad.
Tweet
Sample Race Resume
Here is a sample race resume courtesy of Chris Van Hove. This was his resume for the 2010 season.
Chris Van Hove Resume 2010
Chris Van Hove Resume 2010
10/18/2010
2010 WEC Photo Book
Here's a preview of the 2010 edition of National Pride, the WEC Photo Book covering all eight rounds of the Canadian Enduro Championship series.
Check it out!
Check it out!
10/13/2010
WEC XC Rounds #6 and #7
From the crew at World Enduro Canada.
For Immediate Release - October 13, 2010
It is looking like Mother Nature will be blessing us with some great riding weather for the final two rounds in Wheatly on Oct 30 and Moto Park on Nov 6. Please note both of these events will be on SATURDAY instead of the traditional Sunday.
Cross Country Licenses for 2010 season purchased after Oct 1 are only $40. Riders with a full CMRC license do not need to purchase the Cross Country license.
After the Moto Park event there will be a season ending PARTY in the main building - please plan on sticking around and celebrating a great season of racing!!
Round #6 - October 30th hosted by the Erie Ramblers
"Come blow some carbon outta your bike. Lots of lines for passing and a new MX track layout!!"
Event Schedule:
Sign In: 8am - 11am
Mini Junior & Mini Senior
Rider’s Meeting - 8:45am
Start - 9am-10am
Women / Beginner / Junior / Super Senior / Vet Junior / Vet Senior
Rider’s Meeting - 10:15am
Start - 10:30 -12:00
Pro / Intermediate / Vet Master
Rider’s Meeting - 12:45am
Start- 1pm-3:30pm
Entry Fees: $40.00 + transponder fee (if required)
*** Free Overnight Camping***
Directions to Wheatly event:
Take 401 to Hwy 77 Exit (Comber) and go south towards Leamington to Hwy #3.
Go east on Hwy 3 towards Wheatley to Mersea County Road 21.
Turn right (south) on County Rd 21 to the end and turn left on
Deer Run Road. Track entrance is on the left - gates are located in front of pole barn
Round #7 - The Wiesner Insurance - Motopark
GRAND FINALE MOTO – CROSS COUNTRY
Saturday, November 6, 2010
Yes, you read correctly… it’s the first Saturday of November and we’re finishing the series with a bang!
Party afterwards at the Motopark café so stick around… you don’t have to get up early the next day.
We have a new longer course design that includes the big GP Motocross track!
YOUTH and PEE WEE
Sign in 7:00am to 8:30am
Race 9:00am to 10:00am
1 hour Race time - 30 minutes for Pee Wee*
*Pee Wee riders will have a fantastic course with professionally designed jumps and turns specifically for minis.
Mini and Pee Wee trophies will be awarded at 11:00am (just in case you have to head home)
BEGINNER, JUNIOR, WOMEN, VET JUNIOR, VET SENIOR, SUPER SENIOR
Sign in 7:00am to 9:30am
Race 10:30am to 12:30 pm 2 hour Race time
Trophies for the morning program will be at 2:00pm
VET MASTER, INTERMEDIATE, PRO
Sign in 7:00am to 12:00pm
Race 1:00pm to 3:00pm (extra 30 minutes for Pro riders)
ENTRY FEES:
YOUTH $25
ALL OTHER CLASSES $45
PRIZES: 50% PRO Payback -Trophies in all other classes
TRANSPONDER SCORING IN EFFECT
Overnight Camping is available
The course is fast with an advantage to those riders with motocross speed. There are a lot of terrain changes and loose rock giving those seasoned enduro riders a chance to show how to deal with technical obstacles. The longer course is guaranteed to entertain with fantastic spectator opportunities alongside the huge MX track. Bring your warm clothes, but remember you can hang out and drink hot chocolate at the Motopark cafe all day.
Remember the Wiesner Insurance Holeshot Award. Last chance in 2010 for a Pro to collect $100!
Directions to Motopark: located just off Hwy # 6 south of the town of Chatsworth. When travelling north on Hwy # 6, turn left on Moto Park Drive. Look for the signs… you can’t miss it.
G-Rox' FMSQ Round #10 Report from Sherbrooke
Uncensored and unedited, from the man himself:
Finally the last race of the Season...
This week end the race was in sherbrooke, 2hrs east of Montreal. We left pretty early on saturday morning, but as usual Montreal traffic was just stupid and it took us 5 hrs do drive 200km...
We got there and 10 min laters i knew it was gonna be a stupid week end, the parking was really bad, and i manage to dig my trailer axle deep in soft mud.... Good thing my Ram is a stong truck i was able to get unstuck by myself.... Then me and karine left to walk the track, i also manage to loose her in the trail since her section was so different than mine... My section was horrible, water over roots and rocks all this in real tight wood...This was gonna be a survival race!
Sunday morning came the weather was nice, and i spend my time putting new tires on the bikes since this was gonna be a mudder... Karine went to the line, and she grabbed the lead in the first corner, and decimated the other girls on the moto track, but the lead was short lived when she got in the wood, all this slippery stuff is really not her favorite, and she had a lot problem riding it, she did post steady time, but off the pace off the leaders, and she finished 5th... completely toasted!!!! That finish she be able to secure 2nd for the championship!!!
Then it was me, i got my best start of the year in second!!! made a pass in the first tricky uphill, but Phil stayed with me , we rode together for the first 1:30hrs, then my team(Karine did an awesome pit stop and i was able to run away, then next lap i almost had a 2 min lead... Then a lap later Phil had shrunk the lead to 1 min, so Karine gave me the 2 lap board and i pushed harder to run away from second, but made 2 little mistake, and on the second one i saw some radiator fluid squirt off one hose...... So i picked up my bike and knew it was over.... i rode slowly to reach the scan zone and Phil caught me there, i told him to continue but to tell my team i would wait here to go thrue the scan at 2:30...
We were so far ahead that even by waiting 5 min it still gave me second place.... I was a little pissed but at the same time that race track was so stupid that stopping was almost cool... I've seen many track but this one rate as one of the worst, in the wood section i couldn't even shift second that is how bad it was! I had no fun at all... I just hope somebody wakes up in the FMSQ , and choose better race track.....
So 2nd should give me the Enduro-cross championship, but the not the 1 plate... I made the choice of riding the CEC and that killed my chance at the number one...
Whatever !!! 801 it will be again for next year...
On Monday since it was a day off we went ridin downhill MTB, with JSR, Kevin Lacombe , Marc antoine Genereux and the famous Flexi... We had a blast except for Sexy Flexi who did a smooth front flip landed on her back in rocks and tweak herself a bit....
Now it's freeriding for a while!!!!!!!!
Have a good week!!
G-rocks 801...
Finally the last race of the Season...
This week end the race was in sherbrooke, 2hrs east of Montreal. We left pretty early on saturday morning, but as usual Montreal traffic was just stupid and it took us 5 hrs do drive 200km...
We got there and 10 min laters i knew it was gonna be a stupid week end, the parking was really bad, and i manage to dig my trailer axle deep in soft mud.... Good thing my Ram is a stong truck i was able to get unstuck by myself.... Then me and karine left to walk the track, i also manage to loose her in the trail since her section was so different than mine... My section was horrible, water over roots and rocks all this in real tight wood...This was gonna be a survival race!
Sunday morning came the weather was nice, and i spend my time putting new tires on the bikes since this was gonna be a mudder... Karine went to the line, and she grabbed the lead in the first corner, and decimated the other girls on the moto track, but the lead was short lived when she got in the wood, all this slippery stuff is really not her favorite, and she had a lot problem riding it, she did post steady time, but off the pace off the leaders, and she finished 5th... completely toasted!!!! That finish she be able to secure 2nd for the championship!!!
Then it was me, i got my best start of the year in second!!! made a pass in the first tricky uphill, but Phil stayed with me , we rode together for the first 1:30hrs, then my team(Karine did an awesome pit stop and i was able to run away, then next lap i almost had a 2 min lead... Then a lap later Phil had shrunk the lead to 1 min, so Karine gave me the 2 lap board and i pushed harder to run away from second, but made 2 little mistake, and on the second one i saw some radiator fluid squirt off one hose...... So i picked up my bike and knew it was over.... i rode slowly to reach the scan zone and Phil caught me there, i told him to continue but to tell my team i would wait here to go thrue the scan at 2:30...
We were so far ahead that even by waiting 5 min it still gave me second place.... I was a little pissed but at the same time that race track was so stupid that stopping was almost cool... I've seen many track but this one rate as one of the worst, in the wood section i couldn't even shift second that is how bad it was! I had no fun at all... I just hope somebody wakes up in the FMSQ , and choose better race track.....
So 2nd should give me the Enduro-cross championship, but the not the 1 plate... I made the choice of riding the CEC and that killed my chance at the number one...
Whatever !!! 801 it will be again for next year...
On Monday since it was a day off we went ridin downhill MTB, with JSR, Kevin Lacombe , Marc antoine Genereux and the famous Flexi... We had a blast except for Sexy Flexi who did a smooth front flip landed on her back in rocks and tweak herself a bit....
Now it's freeriding for a while!!!!!!!!
Have a good week!!
G-rocks 801...
Tips for Writing a Killer Racer Resume and Get More Sponsors
If your off-season goal is to get more sponsorships for 2011, nothing is more important than having a good rider resume/package to give prospective sponsors. A rider resume gives anyone who's interested in sponsoring you a good look at your results, and also lets them know that you're serious about your racing, willing to put in off track effort and, above all, that you can represent their product(s)/service(s) in a professional manner.
Some riders don't feel rider resumes are necessary; they get by on the notion if they're good enough people will throw money and free product at them. Maybe this happens for the very top riders, but I imagine even the likes of JS7, Colton Facciotti and Taddy Blazusiak (for all you off roaders) didn't get where they are today by sitting on their behinds and waiting.
A resume will also help explain your sport to outside (non-industry) sponsors.
Again, using an off road reference, because that’s what I’m most experienced with, look at former Corner Grass Race Team front-man, Shane Cuthbertson. Cuthbertson's sponsor list includes numerous companies that have no link to the off road world. Why would these non-industry companies give money/support to Cuthbertson and his crew? Because they are good spokesmen for their sponsors; they thank their extensive sponsor list at every chance. For the sponsors this is excellent advertising! At every podium, and in every press release, they have a chance to reach a captive and interested audience. Cuthbertson and his crew, including former Team Canada ISDE manager Lee Fryberger, are well respected in the off road world and lend their credibility to their sponsors. It's the “If it's good enough for Corner Grass, it's good enough for me!” mentality.
So, how can you write an amazing rider resume that will help you get the attention, and sponsorship, that will help you improve results for 2011? Read on.
Be Clear!
This is essential. You need to let your sponsors know why you're contacting them. Ideally, this should be the first line they read after your name and contact information on the cover sheet (different from the cover letter). You need to clearly and concisely let your sponsors know a) who you are, b) why you're contacting them, c) what YOU can offer them and d) what you would like in return for their help.
Starting from the top of that list:
Having an “objective” at the very top of your resume is the best way to let your potential sponsors know what you're looking for. It can be general, and is often best left general, but clear. You don't need to write “I am looking for a clutch sponsor/sprockets/gear/tires/helmet/etc.”
A clear objective might read: 'Objective: To obtain sponsorship for the 2011 race season."
Next, let your sponsors know a little about yourself. Be honest, but don't be shy. If you won a one off race at the end of the year, say so. Let them know how you finished, and a little bit about what your plans for next season are. You'll want to be honest, and don't exaggerate. Lying about your results is stupid; you will get found out and you'll like a fool for it.
When letting your potential sponsors know what your plans for next year are, be realistic about your expectations. If you set reasonable expectations, and then if you exceed them, bonus. Most people say aim high, and I’m not disagreeing. What I am saying is know where you stand realistically. If you say you're going to win the class in your first year, and you finish 10th, your sponsors won't be as please as if you say “I want to finish top ten” and you finish 10th.
Before asking for any specific support, let your sponsors know what you can do for them. Their first concern is how will sponsoring you help their business. Let them know. Will you put their logo on your trailer? Bike? Body? Would you be willing to make yourself available for promotional events? Trade Shows? Will you hand out information on their products in the pits?
Be clear in what you need from them. Do you need gear? Do you need money for fuel? Do you need mechanical help? Suspension? A clutch? What can they do for you in exchange for your previously outlined services? The more precise you can be about what you need, the more likely you are to get something.
Proof your stuff!
I cannot repeat this enough! We all make spelling errors (myself included! Which is embarrassing, to say the least), but minimize errors. Use a spell check program, and proof read. Submitting a resume that is filled with incorrect spelling or poor grammar makes you look sloppy, and gives the impression that you do not care. You do not want prospective sponsors brushing you off because you didn't bother to double check your work.
Get a friend, parent, fellow racer, school nerd, to proof it for you after you've done your initial proofing. This will help pick up any errors that you might have missed. When I write an article, or a resume, or a press release, it goes through at least three people before being submitted for general consumption. Why? Because I don't want to look like a fool, and if I am going to look like one, I'd rather it be in front of a few close friends and professionals rather than my entire audience.
Again, mistakes are sloppy. No excuses.
I mentioned it before, but it bears repeating: DO NOT LIE! It’s stupid. It’s pointless. Your sponsors will find out. It’s not hard to track down the results for any given race or series. When you’re found out, you will look like a fool, you make your sponsors look like fools, or should I say ex-sponsors?
It’s better to be honest. If you have a less than stellar riding career, be honest. Don’t be afraid. There's plenty of room for improvement.
Also, only include results that date back, at max, two years. Prospective sponsors want to know how great you are, not how awesome you used to be. Even if you rocked the 65 class in 2005, your 8th place finish this year is more important.
Be positive!
If you finished dead last in your series, or if you dnf'ed a race, it's better to not mention it at all. If it's possible to put a positive spin on your results, do so. I'm not saying lie, just present things in a positive light. Try highlighting a particular lap or test time that was good.
NEVER bad mouth ANY ONE. Ever. For any reason. Much like the typo/spelling error thing, it's sloppy and it looks very bad on you. This is a very small, incestuous, industry. People will find out what you say about them. It is better to simply say nothing at all and let your silence speak for itself than say something that might come back to haunt you.
Under NO CIRCUMSTANCE is it appropriate to bad mouth a current or past sponsor, regardless of what happened.
Things to Include:
A Cover Letter:
A cover letter is a great way to introduce yourself in a more detailed way. It allows you to outline your accomplishments, your goals, previous/current sponsors, and any relevant community involvement. It serves to introduce the prospective sponsors to you before they meet you. In essence, it's your first impression: make it count.
A cover letter should not be a generic/one size fits all form. Ideally, you should tailor each CV to the individual prospect.
Current Photographs and Contact Info:
Have a friend or family member come out and take some photos of you in action.
Your gear should match and be clean. Also include a head shot (shoulders up) of yourself in a plain black (preferably collared) shirt. (And don't 'pop' your collar.) Ladies: showing off your assets may sound like a good idea in an industry that seems to value women for their appearance more than anything else, but if you're looking to become a sponsored rider rather than a trophy girl, keep 'em tucked in.
Relevant Community Involvement:
If you're a member of a riding club, or you put on demonstrations for kids, or teach at learn to ride schools, include that. Also, do you volunteer with any other local groups? Boy Scouts? The local volunteer fire fighters? Include that too. Everyone loves fire fighters!
Any Specialty Awards:
Have you ever won a sportsmanship award? Competed in a one-off race and done
well? Did you race Loretta Lynn's or a trials event in BC? Compete at the Raymond Western Am Nationals? Did you race Xtinction, or the Montreal SX? Include all of that, but go no further back than three seasons.
A Sample Race Report from Last Season:
It should be from your best finish of the year, and make sure you thanked all of your sponsors for their awesome support, and let the world know that without them, you just wouldn't have been able to do what you did.
You don't do race reports, you say? Start!
They let your sponsors know how you're doing, and should also be sent to the media (local newspapers, websites that specialize in your racing, post it on your own blog/website, etc). If you don't feel confident writing them yourself, contact a freelancer. Often they'll be able to write your press releases and format them in a very professional way. These should be done after every event you compete in.
Press Coverage!:
If you were spotlighted in a magazine, mentioned in the newspaper, or highlighted on a website, include that. Prospective sponsors want to know and see proof that you've indeed been representing your current sponsors (even if it's just your mom and dad, or your Visa and local shop giving you a deal on parts).
Creativity Counts!People receive an estimated 10,000 messages that ask them to take action, buy something or do something. The job of your resume/package is to stand out from the other 9,999 messages.
Go Outside the Industry:
I promise this: Fox Canada, Royal Distributing, Parts Canada, Honda and Yamaha Canada, along with all of the other major players in the Canadian dirt biking scene, receive thousands of rider resumes, and most of those riders are just as good, if not better, than you.
The answer: Outside Sponsorships. Local businesses are often willing to help out local athletes, just take a look at any Jr or A hockey program. Make yourself available to help represent the company both at the races and local events, such as a fair or local home shows, trade shows, etc. You might be surprised.
Meet and Greet Time:
If you can, drop your resume off in person. There's no better way to stand out from the stack of paper on someones desk is to personally drop off your resume package. This allows the person you speak with to immediately connect your name, rider number and face. People are more likely to remember you if you meet with them face to face.
Sometimes this isn't possible, in these circumstances try calling the decision maker before you email or send something snail mail.
When you go to present your resume/package to a prospective sponsor, or meet them for the first time, be sure to dress professionally. You don't necessarily need a three piece business suit and a tie, but clean dress pants, a polo shirt and dress shoes would be a good start.
Ladies, you need to pay special attention to your appearance. We all know there are two types of women in this sport, and I don’t need to tell you what they are. There’s really no delicate way to say this, but make sure you’re “presentable.” Think business casual rather than club. Yes, undoubtedly this sport is filled with T and A, but your needs are better suited by not showing yours off. They should be admiring and sponsoring you because of your accomplishments, not because of your “assets.”
Think of your sponsor meet and greet as a job interview.
After you’ve had your first meet and greet, maybe a day or two, send a friendly email or give them a call, just to let them know you’re thankful for their time. It keeps you in the front of their mind, as well. It will show that you’re serious about getting their sponsorship. Don’t ask for any decision at this point, just thank them for meeting with you and let them know you’re excited about the possibility.
Ultimately, a good rider resume can be just as important as good results, so make sure to work as hard off the track as you do on it if you want those sponsorships.
Go Viral!
Social networking is a great way to get some free exposure, so is YouTube. My advice would be to create separate accounts from your personal ones. Sponsors don’t want to see pictures of you in compromising positions, and you don’t want them to see them either.
Websites such as www.sponsorhouse.com are also a great place to look. You can build a rider profile and work at getting sponsorships from companies that are actively recruiting. You will still need a resume, though. Many companies will require you to send a resume once they have taken an interest in you.
Be Committed!
This has nothing to do with the resume itself, but is important never the less.
It happens all of the time. A rider gets a deal, things go sour, and for whatever reason the rider negates the terms of his/her contract. Sometimes it might feel justified, but remember, it will come to bite you in the backside when everything’s done. Prospective sponsors will look at your past behaviour as an indicator of the future. It’s kind of like what your mom told you in kindergarten: two wrongs don’t make a right. But it can ruin your chances of getting a better deal next year.
My advice is to simply say nothing and manage the best you can. The industry is tight knit, and for an industry predominately staffed by men they love to gossip. Word of what’s going on with you and your sponsor will get out; if you still stand by and do as right as you can by them, it will look all the better on you.
If you still don't feel confident in writing your own resume, or in writing your VERY NECESSARY race reports (which I will talk about in another post, which will have pictures!), contact a freelancer. Freelancers will do all the hard work for you, provided you pay them. There are many benefits of doing this. You get professional quality work, and can focus more time and energy on the things that need them.
I hope you enjoyed this article! I'll be trying to post a helpful piece like this once a week or so (provided I keep coming up with ideas!) throughout the winter, so check back often. If you have any ideas for articles, or if you have any questions about resume writing, contact me at showie@mail.com.
Follow me on Twitter @SuzieQ_484, and while you're there, take a look @MXandOffRoad for the latest from my friends at IMX!
Some riders don't feel rider resumes are necessary; they get by on the notion if they're good enough people will throw money and free product at them. Maybe this happens for the very top riders, but I imagine even the likes of JS7, Colton Facciotti and Taddy Blazusiak (for all you off roaders) didn't get where they are today by sitting on their behinds and waiting.
A resume will also help explain your sport to outside (non-industry) sponsors.
Again, using an off road reference, because that’s what I’m most experienced with, look at former Corner Grass Race Team front-man, Shane Cuthbertson. Cuthbertson's sponsor list includes numerous companies that have no link to the off road world. Why would these non-industry companies give money/support to Cuthbertson and his crew? Because they are good spokesmen for their sponsors; they thank their extensive sponsor list at every chance. For the sponsors this is excellent advertising! At every podium, and in every press release, they have a chance to reach a captive and interested audience. Cuthbertson and his crew, including former Team Canada ISDE manager Lee Fryberger, are well respected in the off road world and lend their credibility to their sponsors. It's the “If it's good enough for Corner Grass, it's good enough for me!” mentality.
So, how can you write an amazing rider resume that will help you get the attention, and sponsorship, that will help you improve results for 2011? Read on.
Be Clear!
This is essential. You need to let your sponsors know why you're contacting them. Ideally, this should be the first line they read after your name and contact information on the cover sheet (different from the cover letter). You need to clearly and concisely let your sponsors know a) who you are, b) why you're contacting them, c) what YOU can offer them and d) what you would like in return for their help.
Starting from the top of that list:
Having an “objective” at the very top of your resume is the best way to let your potential sponsors know what you're looking for. It can be general, and is often best left general, but clear. You don't need to write “I am looking for a clutch sponsor/sprockets/gear/tires/helmet/etc.”
A clear objective might read: 'Objective: To obtain sponsorship for the 2011 race season."
Next, let your sponsors know a little about yourself. Be honest, but don't be shy. If you won a one off race at the end of the year, say so. Let them know how you finished, and a little bit about what your plans for next season are. You'll want to be honest, and don't exaggerate. Lying about your results is stupid; you will get found out and you'll like a fool for it.
When letting your potential sponsors know what your plans for next year are, be realistic about your expectations. If you set reasonable expectations, and then if you exceed them, bonus. Most people say aim high, and I’m not disagreeing. What I am saying is know where you stand realistically. If you say you're going to win the class in your first year, and you finish 10th, your sponsors won't be as please as if you say “I want to finish top ten” and you finish 10th.
Before asking for any specific support, let your sponsors know what you can do for them. Their first concern is how will sponsoring you help their business. Let them know. Will you put their logo on your trailer? Bike? Body? Would you be willing to make yourself available for promotional events? Trade Shows? Will you hand out information on their products in the pits?
Be clear in what you need from them. Do you need gear? Do you need money for fuel? Do you need mechanical help? Suspension? A clutch? What can they do for you in exchange for your previously outlined services? The more precise you can be about what you need, the more likely you are to get something.
Proof your stuff!
I cannot repeat this enough! We all make spelling errors (myself included! Which is embarrassing, to say the least), but minimize errors. Use a spell check program, and proof read. Submitting a resume that is filled with incorrect spelling or poor grammar makes you look sloppy, and gives the impression that you do not care. You do not want prospective sponsors brushing you off because you didn't bother to double check your work.
Get a friend, parent, fellow racer, school nerd, to proof it for you after you've done your initial proofing. This will help pick up any errors that you might have missed. When I write an article, or a resume, or a press release, it goes through at least three people before being submitted for general consumption. Why? Because I don't want to look like a fool, and if I am going to look like one, I'd rather it be in front of a few close friends and professionals rather than my entire audience.
Again, mistakes are sloppy. No excuses.
I mentioned it before, but it bears repeating: DO NOT LIE! It’s stupid. It’s pointless. Your sponsors will find out. It’s not hard to track down the results for any given race or series. When you’re found out, you will look like a fool, you make your sponsors look like fools, or should I say ex-sponsors?
It’s better to be honest. If you have a less than stellar riding career, be honest. Don’t be afraid. There's plenty of room for improvement.
Also, only include results that date back, at max, two years. Prospective sponsors want to know how great you are, not how awesome you used to be. Even if you rocked the 65 class in 2005, your 8th place finish this year is more important.
Be positive!
If you finished dead last in your series, or if you dnf'ed a race, it's better to not mention it at all. If it's possible to put a positive spin on your results, do so. I'm not saying lie, just present things in a positive light. Try highlighting a particular lap or test time that was good.
NEVER bad mouth ANY ONE. Ever. For any reason. Much like the typo/spelling error thing, it's sloppy and it looks very bad on you. This is a very small, incestuous, industry. People will find out what you say about them. It is better to simply say nothing at all and let your silence speak for itself than say something that might come back to haunt you.
Under NO CIRCUMSTANCE is it appropriate to bad mouth a current or past sponsor, regardless of what happened.
Things to Include:
A Cover Letter:
A cover letter is a great way to introduce yourself in a more detailed way. It allows you to outline your accomplishments, your goals, previous/current sponsors, and any relevant community involvement. It serves to introduce the prospective sponsors to you before they meet you. In essence, it's your first impression: make it count.
A cover letter should not be a generic/one size fits all form. Ideally, you should tailor each CV to the individual prospect.
Current Photographs and Contact Info:
Have a friend or family member come out and take some photos of you in action.
Your gear should match and be clean. Also include a head shot (shoulders up) of yourself in a plain black (preferably collared) shirt. (And don't 'pop' your collar.) Ladies: showing off your assets may sound like a good idea in an industry that seems to value women for their appearance more than anything else, but if you're looking to become a sponsored rider rather than a trophy girl, keep 'em tucked in.
Relevant Community Involvement:
If you're a member of a riding club, or you put on demonstrations for kids, or teach at learn to ride schools, include that. Also, do you volunteer with any other local groups? Boy Scouts? The local volunteer fire fighters? Include that too. Everyone loves fire fighters!
Any Specialty Awards:
Have you ever won a sportsmanship award? Competed in a one-off race and done
well? Did you race Loretta Lynn's or a trials event in BC? Compete at the Raymond Western Am Nationals? Did you race Xtinction, or the Montreal SX? Include all of that, but go no further back than three seasons.
A Sample Race Report from Last Season:
It should be from your best finish of the year, and make sure you thanked all of your sponsors for their awesome support, and let the world know that without them, you just wouldn't have been able to do what you did.
You don't do race reports, you say? Start!
They let your sponsors know how you're doing, and should also be sent to the media (local newspapers, websites that specialize in your racing, post it on your own blog/website, etc). If you don't feel confident writing them yourself, contact a freelancer. Often they'll be able to write your press releases and format them in a very professional way. These should be done after every event you compete in.
Press Coverage!:
If you were spotlighted in a magazine, mentioned in the newspaper, or highlighted on a website, include that. Prospective sponsors want to know and see proof that you've indeed been representing your current sponsors (even if it's just your mom and dad, or your Visa and local shop giving you a deal on parts).
Creativity Counts!People receive an estimated 10,000 messages that ask them to take action, buy something or do something. The job of your resume/package is to stand out from the other 9,999 messages.
Go Outside the Industry:
I promise this: Fox Canada, Royal Distributing, Parts Canada, Honda and Yamaha Canada, along with all of the other major players in the Canadian dirt biking scene, receive thousands of rider resumes, and most of those riders are just as good, if not better, than you.
The answer: Outside Sponsorships. Local businesses are often willing to help out local athletes, just take a look at any Jr or A hockey program. Make yourself available to help represent the company both at the races and local events, such as a fair or local home shows, trade shows, etc. You might be surprised.
Meet and Greet Time:
If you can, drop your resume off in person. There's no better way to stand out from the stack of paper on someones desk is to personally drop off your resume package. This allows the person you speak with to immediately connect your name, rider number and face. People are more likely to remember you if you meet with them face to face.
Sometimes this isn't possible, in these circumstances try calling the decision maker before you email or send something snail mail.
When you go to present your resume/package to a prospective sponsor, or meet them for the first time, be sure to dress professionally. You don't necessarily need a three piece business suit and a tie, but clean dress pants, a polo shirt and dress shoes would be a good start.
Ladies, you need to pay special attention to your appearance. We all know there are two types of women in this sport, and I don’t need to tell you what they are. There’s really no delicate way to say this, but make sure you’re “presentable.” Think business casual rather than club. Yes, undoubtedly this sport is filled with T and A, but your needs are better suited by not showing yours off. They should be admiring and sponsoring you because of your accomplishments, not because of your “assets.”
Think of your sponsor meet and greet as a job interview.
After you’ve had your first meet and greet, maybe a day or two, send a friendly email or give them a call, just to let them know you’re thankful for their time. It keeps you in the front of their mind, as well. It will show that you’re serious about getting their sponsorship. Don’t ask for any decision at this point, just thank them for meeting with you and let them know you’re excited about the possibility.
Ultimately, a good rider resume can be just as important as good results, so make sure to work as hard off the track as you do on it if you want those sponsorships.
Go Viral!
Social networking is a great way to get some free exposure, so is YouTube. My advice would be to create separate accounts from your personal ones. Sponsors don’t want to see pictures of you in compromising positions, and you don’t want them to see them either.
Websites such as www.sponsorhouse.com are also a great place to look. You can build a rider profile and work at getting sponsorships from companies that are actively recruiting. You will still need a resume, though. Many companies will require you to send a resume once they have taken an interest in you.
Be Committed!
This has nothing to do with the resume itself, but is important never the less.
It happens all of the time. A rider gets a deal, things go sour, and for whatever reason the rider negates the terms of his/her contract. Sometimes it might feel justified, but remember, it will come to bite you in the backside when everything’s done. Prospective sponsors will look at your past behaviour as an indicator of the future. It’s kind of like what your mom told you in kindergarten: two wrongs don’t make a right. But it can ruin your chances of getting a better deal next year.
My advice is to simply say nothing and manage the best you can. The industry is tight knit, and for an industry predominately staffed by men they love to gossip. Word of what’s going on with you and your sponsor will get out; if you still stand by and do as right as you can by them, it will look all the better on you.
If you still don't feel confident in writing your own resume, or in writing your VERY NECESSARY race reports (which I will talk about in another post, which will have pictures!), contact a freelancer. Freelancers will do all the hard work for you, provided you pay them. There are many benefits of doing this. You get professional quality work, and can focus more time and energy on the things that need them.
I hope you enjoyed this article! I'll be trying to post a helpful piece like this once a week or so (provided I keep coming up with ideas!) throughout the winter, so check back often. If you have any ideas for articles, or if you have any questions about resume writing, contact me at showie@mail.com.
Follow me on Twitter @SuzieQ_484, and while you're there, take a look @MXandOffRoad for the latest from my friends at IMX!
10/08/2010
Husqvarna on Podium in Montreal!
From Marc at Feeding Performance.
October 5, 2010 – Saint John, NB – In front of over 40,000 screaming fans, Factory Husqvarna rider Bartosz Oblucki charged his way to a 3rd place finish and claimed the final podium position at the 2010 Montreal Endurocross. In only its second year of being held during the annual Montreal Supercross, this year’s edition of the race proved to be another huge success for both fans and racers.
Source: www.husqvarna.it
BARTOSZ OBLUCKI
Poland’s Oblucki was a welcome guest to the FP Husqvarna Canada Race Team and joined FP’s Ryan Graffunder and Guy Giroux in their assault on Montreal’s infamous Olympic Stadium.
Bartosz set the second quickest time on his WR300 in practice and followed that up with a 3rd place finish in the evening Qualifier. Guy Giroux would recover from a spectacular first lap crash in the Qualifier to finish 4th behind Oblucki. Husky Canada’s Ryan Graffunder fought his way forward from the back of the pack after a horrible start and would finish the Qualifying race in 6th.
In the Endurocross Final, Oblucki jumped out to a top 3 start with Husky Canada’s young gun, Ryan Graffunder and his TXC450, hot on his heels in 4th. Giroux started the first lap buried mid-pack and steadily mounted his charge toward the front.
Oblucki spent the remainder of the race hunting the USA’s Mike Brown and Hungary’s Kornel Nemeth. Although Oblucki would not close the gap on Brown who finished 1st, and Nemeth 2nd, Bartosz crossed the finish line with a solid grip on 3rd position and the final spot on the podium.
Photo: Lincoln Ferguson
RYAN GRAFFUNDER
“Practice was pretty good for me. I had no issues in the first sessions but made a few mistakes in the last practice.” said Graffunder. I felt comfortable with the track and just focused on getting ready for the Qualifier. My start did not go well and I was towards the back as we went into the tire section. It was chaos in that section so I spent the race trying to stay out of trouble and just picking off as many riders as I could. I made it up to 6th which felt good after my bad start. In the final I was determined not to blow the start again so I was pretty stoked to enter the tires behind Bartosz in 4th. I knew I had to stay calm and just ride like I have trained to ride.
The tire section was nuts the whole race. With a couple laps to go I finally got jammed behind a downed rider in the tires and Julian (Cerny) went flying by me to take 4th; then Giroux was all over me. The last lap Guy got messed up by another downed rider and I got by him. I wish I could have got back by Julian to finish as the top Canadian but I was very excited to finish 5th Overall and 2nd Canadian.”
Photo: Offroadmotorcycles.ca
Guy Giroux
“In the Qualifier, I lined up right beside (Mike) Brown” said Giroux. “I knew he was going to get the holeshot, and he would probably push people out and that would give me room. And that is exactly what happened. I was there in second with nobody in front of me going into the tires. They had changed the track by removing dirt in front of the tires, so when I attacked like in practice the effect wasn't the same.
My chance of leading transformed into a front flip when my back tire kicked. I was quick enough to eject in time and land pretty smooth. My Rekluse saved my butt and I was quick to get back into fourth. I rode super smooth until the end and I could even see Bartosz in front of me when I rode over the finish. I knew I could do the same in the main.
In the main event, Giroux and his TC250 lined up to the left of Brown again but things did not go as well as they had in the Qualifier. “My reaction was awful, and I was stuck in the back. I didn't panic because I knew I could make a good comeback. I rode the first lap in 9th but got up to 5th and I could see Julian (Cerny) in front of me. Then my luck turned south. I made one small mistake on the rock uphill and Phil (Chaine) passed me. Then I was setting up to pass him in the tires and he crashed in front of me. I lost momentum and got stuck. On the last lap the same thing happened with another lapper, so I ended up with 10th”.
Although not at all pleased with his result, the seasoned veteran from Quebec took some satisfaction in knowing that after over 20 years of racing at Olympic Stadium that he still has what it takes to run up front with Canada’s best riders.
Before heading back to Europe, Bartosz and the rest of the FP Husqvarna crew were able to celebrate his podium finish, and the amazing ride by young Ryan Graffunder, in beautiful downtown Montreal.
Photo: Offroadmotorcycles.ca
BARTOSZ OBLUCKI
Husqvarna Dealers from across Canada, along with Husqvarna Canada staff and representatives from Husqvarna Italy, were in attendance at the Montreal race.
In addition to a great weekend of test piloting new 2011 Husqvarnas at Montreal’s XTown riding facility, and learning the latest news from Husqvarna; the group had plenty to cheer about as all three Husqvarna racers hammered their way towards the front in the chaotic main event.
2010 Montreal Endurocross
• 1st Mike Brown (USA)
• 2nd Kornel Nemeth (Hungary)
• 3rd Bartosz Oblucki (Poland) – HUSQVARNA
• 5th Ryan Graffunder (British Columbia) – HUSQVARNA
• 10th Guy Giroux (Quebec) – HUSQVARNA
In addition to almost 20 podiums in Regional races across the country, including close to 10 Wins, the new Husqvarna Canada team has finished its debut season in the Canadian Enduro Championship with 10 Pro Class Podiums, two Top 10 Overalls in the series and the Top Pro Junior Award.
This success has allowed the FP Husky team to put the entire displacement range of 2010 Husqvarna off-road race bikes available to the Canadian market on the podium. All race bikes were in stock trim with the exception of bolt-on accessories. These models include the 125, 144, 250 and 300 two strokes as well as the 250, 450 and 510 four strokes.
In August, Husqvarna USA’s Cory Graffunder won the toughest off-road race ever held on Canadian soil; the inaugural Xtinction Extreme Enduro, in the Badlands of Alberta.
Now Husqvarna Europe’s Bartosz Oblucki has claimed his podium in Montreal and Husqvarna Canada’s Ryan Graffunder has logged the most impressive ride of his promising young career.
The 2010 Canadian race season has been a great year for Husqvarna. 2011 promises to be even better!
We are very grateful to our many amazing sponsors. Without them, our team would not exist.
Team Sponsors
Husqvarna Canada, Feeding Performance Inc., Motovan, Rekluse, Ogio, Dragon, Xtreme, TCX, Axis, Zox, Pro-Tech, Etnies, Throttle Entertainment, UNI Filter, DID, LeoVince, GPR Stabilizer, Motul, LimeNine, EC3D, Impact Canopies, GoPro, Enduro Engineering, Supersprox, SkyCap, Boyesen, E-line, IMS, Matrix Concepts, Tuff As Gutz, TM Designworks, Dunlop and Zip Ty Racing.
Special thanks to the Husqvarna Canada dealers that provide extra assistance to help ensure our race program is a success; Bow Ridge Sports in Cochrane, Echo Cycle in Edmonton and RiverCity Cycle in Kamloops.
Photo: Offroadmotorcycles.ca
The All New 2011 Husqvarna TE449
About Husqvarna Motorcycles
Tradition on two wheels since 1903
Husqvarna Motorcycles, a part of the BMW Group since October 2007, are widely known and respected in the off-road world for a heritage of competition and have accumulated over 70 World Championships in Motocross, Enduro and Supermotard. Originally founded in Sweden in 1903, Husqvarna motorcycles have been designed and manufactured in Varese, Italy since 1987.
For more information, please visit www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com and www.feedingperformance.com
October 5, 2010 – Saint John, NB – In front of over 40,000 screaming fans, Factory Husqvarna rider Bartosz Oblucki charged his way to a 3rd place finish and claimed the final podium position at the 2010 Montreal Endurocross. In only its second year of being held during the annual Montreal Supercross, this year’s edition of the race proved to be another huge success for both fans and racers.
Source: www.husqvarna.it
BARTOSZ OBLUCKI
Poland’s Oblucki was a welcome guest to the FP Husqvarna Canada Race Team and joined FP’s Ryan Graffunder and Guy Giroux in their assault on Montreal’s infamous Olympic Stadium.
Bartosz set the second quickest time on his WR300 in practice and followed that up with a 3rd place finish in the evening Qualifier. Guy Giroux would recover from a spectacular first lap crash in the Qualifier to finish 4th behind Oblucki. Husky Canada’s Ryan Graffunder fought his way forward from the back of the pack after a horrible start and would finish the Qualifying race in 6th.
In the Endurocross Final, Oblucki jumped out to a top 3 start with Husky Canada’s young gun, Ryan Graffunder and his TXC450, hot on his heels in 4th. Giroux started the first lap buried mid-pack and steadily mounted his charge toward the front.
Oblucki spent the remainder of the race hunting the USA’s Mike Brown and Hungary’s Kornel Nemeth. Although Oblucki would not close the gap on Brown who finished 1st, and Nemeth 2nd, Bartosz crossed the finish line with a solid grip on 3rd position and the final spot on the podium.
Photo: Lincoln Ferguson
RYAN GRAFFUNDER
“Practice was pretty good for me. I had no issues in the first sessions but made a few mistakes in the last practice.” said Graffunder. I felt comfortable with the track and just focused on getting ready for the Qualifier. My start did not go well and I was towards the back as we went into the tire section. It was chaos in that section so I spent the race trying to stay out of trouble and just picking off as many riders as I could. I made it up to 6th which felt good after my bad start. In the final I was determined not to blow the start again so I was pretty stoked to enter the tires behind Bartosz in 4th. I knew I had to stay calm and just ride like I have trained to ride.
The tire section was nuts the whole race. With a couple laps to go I finally got jammed behind a downed rider in the tires and Julian (Cerny) went flying by me to take 4th; then Giroux was all over me. The last lap Guy got messed up by another downed rider and I got by him. I wish I could have got back by Julian to finish as the top Canadian but I was very excited to finish 5th Overall and 2nd Canadian.”
Photo: Offroadmotorcycles.ca
Guy Giroux
“In the Qualifier, I lined up right beside (Mike) Brown” said Giroux. “I knew he was going to get the holeshot, and he would probably push people out and that would give me room. And that is exactly what happened. I was there in second with nobody in front of me going into the tires. They had changed the track by removing dirt in front of the tires, so when I attacked like in practice the effect wasn't the same.
My chance of leading transformed into a front flip when my back tire kicked. I was quick enough to eject in time and land pretty smooth. My Rekluse saved my butt and I was quick to get back into fourth. I rode super smooth until the end and I could even see Bartosz in front of me when I rode over the finish. I knew I could do the same in the main.
In the main event, Giroux and his TC250 lined up to the left of Brown again but things did not go as well as they had in the Qualifier. “My reaction was awful, and I was stuck in the back. I didn't panic because I knew I could make a good comeback. I rode the first lap in 9th but got up to 5th and I could see Julian (Cerny) in front of me. Then my luck turned south. I made one small mistake on the rock uphill and Phil (Chaine) passed me. Then I was setting up to pass him in the tires and he crashed in front of me. I lost momentum and got stuck. On the last lap the same thing happened with another lapper, so I ended up with 10th”.
Although not at all pleased with his result, the seasoned veteran from Quebec took some satisfaction in knowing that after over 20 years of racing at Olympic Stadium that he still has what it takes to run up front with Canada’s best riders.
Before heading back to Europe, Bartosz and the rest of the FP Husqvarna crew were able to celebrate his podium finish, and the amazing ride by young Ryan Graffunder, in beautiful downtown Montreal.
Photo: Offroadmotorcycles.ca
BARTOSZ OBLUCKI
Husqvarna Dealers from across Canada, along with Husqvarna Canada staff and representatives from Husqvarna Italy, were in attendance at the Montreal race.
In addition to a great weekend of test piloting new 2011 Husqvarnas at Montreal’s XTown riding facility, and learning the latest news from Husqvarna; the group had plenty to cheer about as all three Husqvarna racers hammered their way towards the front in the chaotic main event.
2010 Montreal Endurocross
• 1st Mike Brown (USA)
• 2nd Kornel Nemeth (Hungary)
• 3rd Bartosz Oblucki (Poland) – HUSQVARNA
• 5th Ryan Graffunder (British Columbia) – HUSQVARNA
• 10th Guy Giroux (Quebec) – HUSQVARNA
In addition to almost 20 podiums in Regional races across the country, including close to 10 Wins, the new Husqvarna Canada team has finished its debut season in the Canadian Enduro Championship with 10 Pro Class Podiums, two Top 10 Overalls in the series and the Top Pro Junior Award.
This success has allowed the FP Husky team to put the entire displacement range of 2010 Husqvarna off-road race bikes available to the Canadian market on the podium. All race bikes were in stock trim with the exception of bolt-on accessories. These models include the 125, 144, 250 and 300 two strokes as well as the 250, 450 and 510 four strokes.
In August, Husqvarna USA’s Cory Graffunder won the toughest off-road race ever held on Canadian soil; the inaugural Xtinction Extreme Enduro, in the Badlands of Alberta.
Now Husqvarna Europe’s Bartosz Oblucki has claimed his podium in Montreal and Husqvarna Canada’s Ryan Graffunder has logged the most impressive ride of his promising young career.
The 2010 Canadian race season has been a great year for Husqvarna. 2011 promises to be even better!
We are very grateful to our many amazing sponsors. Without them, our team would not exist.
Team Sponsors
Husqvarna Canada, Feeding Performance Inc., Motovan, Rekluse, Ogio, Dragon, Xtreme, TCX, Axis, Zox, Pro-Tech, Etnies, Throttle Entertainment, UNI Filter, DID, LeoVince, GPR Stabilizer, Motul, LimeNine, EC3D, Impact Canopies, GoPro, Enduro Engineering, Supersprox, SkyCap, Boyesen, E-line, IMS, Matrix Concepts, Tuff As Gutz, TM Designworks, Dunlop and Zip Ty Racing.
Special thanks to the Husqvarna Canada dealers that provide extra assistance to help ensure our race program is a success; Bow Ridge Sports in Cochrane, Echo Cycle in Edmonton and RiverCity Cycle in Kamloops.
Photo: Offroadmotorcycles.ca
The All New 2011 Husqvarna TE449
About Husqvarna Motorcycles
Tradition on two wheels since 1903
Husqvarna Motorcycles, a part of the BMW Group since October 2007, are widely known and respected in the off-road world for a heritage of competition and have accumulated over 70 World Championships in Motocross, Enduro and Supermotard. Originally founded in Sweden in 1903, Husqvarna motorcycles have been designed and manufactured in Varese, Italy since 1987.
For more information, please visit www.husqvarna-motorcycles.com and www.feedingperformance.com
10/05/2010
Team Yamaha/Machine Racing Off Road's Montreal SX Report
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| From 5th Gear Updates |
Courtesy of Brian "Wojo" Wojnarowski and Adam "Cheeseburger" Millson.
For Immediate Release
October 03, 2010
New Horizons
Brian Wojnarowski and Adam Millson made their third trip to Quebec, this time to the Olympic Stadium in Montreal for the endurocross event at extremely popular Montreal Supercross. The two Yamaha riders would line up against American Mike Brown, Pole Bartosz Oblucki, Hungarian Kornel Nemeth and fellow Canadians Guy Giroux, Ryan Graffunder, Julian Cerny, Geoff Nelson and Ben Rego.
Friday’s practice went well for Wojnarowski, who dialled in the tire double, logs and rock pile early in the day. A technical rider, Wojo opted to use his Friday practice time to memorize the course. “I get a lot of flak for walking tests, and practicing stuff like this, but really, it’s how I get prepared for stuff like this,” the racer known for walking tests three or four times prior to a race said. “They can say what they want, but they can’t say I’m not prepared.”
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| From 5th Gear Updates |
Saturday Wojo put down a 1:03.07 lap time in his first practice, but remained 9.525 seconds off his practice leader, the indomitable Mike Brown. Second practice saw the #2 Yamaha still unable to break the 1 minute barrier, putting down a 1:03.40; 7.068 seconds off the leader, Bartosz Oblucki, a fast Polish World Enduro rider.
Millson was unable to participate in Friday’s practice session, and a transponder error caused him to not be scored during his first practice. Practice #2 went better, with Millson laying down the second fastest time in his practice, a 1:09.883; .789 of a second off Marc-Andre Beaudoin. “That’s some rough stuff out there,” said the light hearted rider.
Both Wojo and Millson advanced into the main, to race against the 25 fastest times from practice in front of an estimated 60,000 screaming, cheering fans. Wojo qualified 8th, and Millson put himself 19th in qualifying.
In the main Millson was forced out after completing only three laps, as the tire pit was more than a little carnage on the track. Wojo finished inside the top ten, 9th, which while outside his goal of top 5, was not a bad finish for the first time EnduroXer.
“I’ve just got a lot to learn about riding this kind of stuff,” said Wojo at the end of Saturday. “It could have gone better, but I feel I rode well. I was prepared; I came out and rode the race as best I could. There’s always room for improvement.”
Wojo and Millson would like to thank their sponsors: Yamaha Canada, Machine Racing and John Nelson, LGS Suspension Development and Podium Grafix. Wojo would also like to thank Orthoflex, Electrosport, PerformX Motocross Training, Bondi Engines and Trail Tours.
In addition, the boys would like to thank Mark from Machine Racing/LGS Suspension Development and Bryan Marshall for their help in the pits.
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| From 5th Gear Updates |
The Yamaha boys raced the 12 Hours of LaToque at the beginning of the year, and soundly won the prestigious event. Here a young fan recognized the 2/22 bikes and asked for a photo with Wojo.
Guy Giroux's Montreal SX Report
Totally unedited (though I really, really want to!) and raw from the Top Pimp 801 himself: G-Rox!
Well pressure is finally off, the Montreal freak show is over...
September has been a crazy month, 2 CEC, 1 FMSQ, plus the Sx and the dealer meeting.
Let's recap the week, Monday was spend washing and fixing the last fmsq race bikes, Tuesday i went to Montreal to pick up the new 2011 Husky at the airport, what was supposed to be a 2 hrs job actually took 8 hrs because customs paper were wrong, since the bike were flown from Italy straight... Anyway i got the bike and it took us most of the night to put those four bikes together. On Wednesday i tried to load the trailer with all the stuff for the race, the dealer meeting, Bartosz and Ryan bikes! On Thursday i woke up at 4am to drive to Mtl for the tv morning show, then i drove to the hotel to pick Bartosz and Ryan and drive them to X-Town. Once There the rain just never stopped, it was pourring all day, we set up the tents to let the dealers come and try the 2011 in the indoor track, Bart mechanic spend all day putting the 300 to factory specs (man those real factory dudes are picky on their set up...) Around 5pm me, Karine and Bart were finally on the track having fun, i was actually riding super good only 1-2 seconds off Bart's time! Then we took everything down and loaded the trailer direction Montreal Stadium, got there at around 11pm, grabbed some junk food by the side of the street just before the parking gate, Then shit started, the union dude there had the brilliant idea to park us on the hill behind the stadium, in wet slippery grass, when i started slipping down i shut everything off and went to sleep in my off camber bed.... When i woke up on friday it was a new guy working and he showed me a nice parking spot, which i took with no regrets... Then it was meetings till 1pm, At 3 i was on the track riding practice, while everyone was going for fast lap, i just rode around trying to find alternate line everywhere. I had a real shitty time of 1:08, but i knew all the lines....
Saturday morning i still had some meeting, but came back earlier, to get everything done. Then for practice my plan was clear, ride first lap slow then attack for a fast lap, i got a 1:01, took a little break and got a 59:6, all this riding really smooth. In the second practice i got 1:00 but all my time were so consistent and i wasn't making any mistake, i was feeling really confident.
In the Qualifier , i lined up right beside Brown, i knew he was gonna get the holeshot,and he would probably push people out and that would give me room.... And that is exactly what happened !!! i was there in second with nobody in front of me going to the tires, But they had changed the track by removing dirt in front of the tires.... so when i attacked like in practice the effect wasn't the same... My chance of leading transformed into a front flip when my back tire kicked, i was quick enough to eject in time to land pretty smooth , my Rekluse saved my butt and i was quick back in fourth! were i rode super smooth till the end, i could even see Bartosz in front of me, when i rode over the finish i knew i could do the same in the main!
Then in the main, once again i lined up left of Brown, but this time my brain was probably thinking about something else, cause my reaction was awfull, and i was stuck in the back , i didn't panic cause i knew i could make a good comeback ride, i rode the first lap in 9th and began my comeback, i was riding super smooth maybe too smooth..., but i got back to 5th and i could see Julian in front of me! Then my luck turn south, did one mini mistake on the rock uphill, and Phil passed me, as i was setting up to pass him in the tires he crased in front of me , and i lost momentum and got stuck.........then on the last lap same thing with another lapper.......... so i got a 10th, which completely sucks!!!!!!!!!!!! and i'm still pissed about it, and will probably be for a while.........
I still don't understand why they change the track after practice??? would they change a tripple without telling everyone?? or having the guy's try it?? And why is there Junior's on the track in an international event???????????????????????????????????????????????? Isn't that supposed to be a PRO race?????????
Well pressure is finally off, the Montreal freak show is over...
September has been a crazy month, 2 CEC, 1 FMSQ, plus the Sx and the dealer meeting.
Let's recap the week, Monday was spend washing and fixing the last fmsq race bikes, Tuesday i went to Montreal to pick up the new 2011 Husky at the airport, what was supposed to be a 2 hrs job actually took 8 hrs because customs paper were wrong, since the bike were flown from Italy straight... Anyway i got the bike and it took us most of the night to put those four bikes together. On Wednesday i tried to load the trailer with all the stuff for the race, the dealer meeting, Bartosz and Ryan bikes! On Thursday i woke up at 4am to drive to Mtl for the tv morning show, then i drove to the hotel to pick Bartosz and Ryan and drive them to X-Town. Once There the rain just never stopped, it was pourring all day, we set up the tents to let the dealers come and try the 2011 in the indoor track, Bart mechanic spend all day putting the 300 to factory specs (man those real factory dudes are picky on their set up...) Around 5pm me, Karine and Bart were finally on the track having fun, i was actually riding super good only 1-2 seconds off Bart's time! Then we took everything down and loaded the trailer direction Montreal Stadium, got there at around 11pm, grabbed some junk food by the side of the street just before the parking gate, Then shit started, the union dude there had the brilliant idea to park us on the hill behind the stadium, in wet slippery grass, when i started slipping down i shut everything off and went to sleep in my off camber bed.... When i woke up on friday it was a new guy working and he showed me a nice parking spot, which i took with no regrets... Then it was meetings till 1pm, At 3 i was on the track riding practice, while everyone was going for fast lap, i just rode around trying to find alternate line everywhere. I had a real shitty time of 1:08, but i knew all the lines....
Saturday morning i still had some meeting, but came back earlier, to get everything done. Then for practice my plan was clear, ride first lap slow then attack for a fast lap, i got a 1:01, took a little break and got a 59:6, all this riding really smooth. In the second practice i got 1:00 but all my time were so consistent and i wasn't making any mistake, i was feeling really confident.
In the Qualifier , i lined up right beside Brown, i knew he was gonna get the holeshot,and he would probably push people out and that would give me room.... And that is exactly what happened !!! i was there in second with nobody in front of me going to the tires, But they had changed the track by removing dirt in front of the tires.... so when i attacked like in practice the effect wasn't the same... My chance of leading transformed into a front flip when my back tire kicked, i was quick enough to eject in time to land pretty smooth , my Rekluse saved my butt and i was quick back in fourth! were i rode super smooth till the end, i could even see Bartosz in front of me, when i rode over the finish i knew i could do the same in the main!
Then in the main, once again i lined up left of Brown, but this time my brain was probably thinking about something else, cause my reaction was awfull, and i was stuck in the back , i didn't panic cause i knew i could make a good comeback ride, i rode the first lap in 9th and began my comeback, i was riding super smooth maybe too smooth..., but i got back to 5th and i could see Julian in front of me! Then my luck turn south, did one mini mistake on the rock uphill, and Phil passed me, as i was setting up to pass him in the tires he crased in front of me , and i lost momentum and got stuck.........then on the last lap same thing with another lapper.......... so i got a 10th, which completely sucks!!!!!!!!!!!! and i'm still pissed about it, and will probably be for a while.........
I still don't understand why they change the track after practice??? would they change a tripple without telling everyone?? or having the guy's try it?? And why is there Junior's on the track in an international event???????????????????????????????????????????????? Isn't that supposed to be a PRO race?????????
href="http://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/rdltVIgEPvcrHGjAnnhTCgksYYXpR7jFatiBppr-ukI?feat=embedwebsite">
So after the race i tried to calm down but there was still lot of stuff to do, we were finally able to go out around 1:30 and we had a blast!!! and my GF is hot when so goes out... ;) after they kicked us out , the poutine was greasy and good... Then we got back to the truck, and like last year i sat down and looked at that stupid concrete stadium.... that once again had bitten me!!! i guess that's racing , thinking back at it maybe i should have ridden different, take a different line!!!!!!!!!! But it's too late , will i have another shot at it... i guess time will tell Next week end is The last FMSQ.... then it's freeriding till the snow... i'm overdue for some fun riding!!!!!!!! over and out G-rocks 
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