In the interest of timeliness over quality, here is a quick (maybe) and dirty (very) run down of the 2015 / 20th running of Downieville Classic – one of our all time favorite events in one of our all time favorite locations!
Full. Complete. UTTER EXHAUSTION. That is the only way you know you gave everything to the Downieville Classic in exchange for the opportunity to test yourself and push your limits in a way not easily replicated.
The Cabin Crew: Steve, Bri, Brian, Evan, Jett and Tera!
Our pal Steve Lewis shows what it’s like to have left everything on the trail. In his first attempt he put up a solid XC time and pulled though a broken dropper post and loss of the front brake to nail down a strong DH run, too! Thanks for all of your incredible help, support and enthusiasm!
This year we were lucky enough to have Jett Chandler join us for the weekend. Although not able to nab an AM entry, he brought his hardtail and a strong shot of courage to test his mettle. It proved quite good initially as he was in the leading climbing group before succumbing to a bit of a leg issue. His maiden voyage down the course was not kind as he sampled a few dirt and rock treats, but made it through with what only amounted to a bite from the course that will be sure to see him infected with a strong desire to return for revenge…
Before and After!
Marin / Rabobank was in full effect as Brianne was rocking her Marin Mt. Vision 140mm travel bike and Evan was going big on his 160mm Attack Trail. Race prepped in the secret dungeon of performance and ready to shred!
Brianne with Jake and Nye Yakle. Both boys put up some super fast times this weekend!!
It’s rare, but Clark doesn’t hate everyone. Turns out Jett has a good soul and Clark loves him!! New friends are a tradition of Downieville for sure!
Bri found Carli and Ben after the race!
There is no way that our tribe could have put down such great results without the help of our super supportive families who also take the weekend to enjoy the mountains and cheer on some bike racing! One thing we love about bike racing is the great family atmosphere and it truly takes and army to support this band of ragged misfits. Brian, Kim, Kris and Joe put out huge amounts of effort all weekend to ensure a successful cause! Enjoying the weekend with great friends and family only serves to make the experience all the more memorable!
The one and only Billy Damon with Steve and Brian
One thing that is undeniable about this race, is that you know the strongest competition, comprised of the fastest, fittest, most well rounded riders will make an appearance. Bringing your “A game” is not essential, it’s required. With Bri and Brett hitting their goal times and so many of our friends landing on the podium, it really is a weekend experience that creates lasting memories. Brian loves his IBIS HD3 and it landed him a personal best 3rd XC.
Daniel Kuhn captured the last dirt corner before the red carpet stroll to the finish line. At this point, the reserves are depleted. The tank is empty. The metaphors have run out. It’s you against the hardest gear you dare in your quest to scrub every last second from your ultimate finish time. Well done and well deserved. The 2015 Downieville Classic did not disappoint in creating another landmark experience for our tribe. Now it’s time to hit the river and clean up!
