I just got home from checking out round one of the 2009 Extreme Dirt Series at my home track, Crow Canyon in Uhrichsville Ohio.
While waiting in a line of traffic to get into the place for forty minutes I knew I made the right choice in establishing an ATV Scene sponsorship position in this hot new cross country racing series.
Seeing 200 riders making their way to the starting area made this Ohio/West Virginia series feel just like a National. On hand were the some of the fastest quad riders in the country, including; Adam McGill, Brandon Sommers, Johnny Gallagher, Chris Bithell, Traci Cecco, Angel Atwater, Jeffrey Pickens, Chris Conklin among many others.
When the two hour race was over, Adam McGill finished with the win on his all-too-famous KTM 450XC. Runner up went to Chris Bithell on his dialed-in Can-Am DS450, while Brandon Sommers rounded out the podium on his brand spankin’ new Yamaha YFZ450R. Also worth note was Traci Cecco’s 3rd place finish in the tough A ranks, which featured about 20 fast A rider guys. Angel Atwell also rode well, but only for four laps. I assume she had some mechanical problems. Meanwhile there was one more female running in the A class at the opener. It was long time motocross-girl Jami Luburg who finished just out of the top ten in only her third cross country race of her career.
Before I get to the photos, major props are in order to EDS promoters Craig Lucas and wife Michelle. I’ve promoted and covered many events over the years, but Craig’s takes the cake for professionalism. His very thought out website, friendly staff, professional signage and well-done track layout all contribute to an exciting vibe.
And how can I forget the many sharp “Moto Girls” that stroll through the pits. They remind me that the ordinary podium-trophy-girl is so yesterday.
Yes round one saw a few minor hiccups in handling the masses at registration and scoring but I think Craig has a small success problem here that I bet gets fixed by round two.
If you’re anywhere near Ohio and West Virginia and you’re looking for a series that’s just like the nationals without the travel, look no further that this year’s EDS. Round two is just around the corner on March 29 in Marietta, OH. Also if you liked the Crow Canyon moto-resort be sure to check out their annual Turkey Run held in November. It’s a fun ride-day on a well-done 10-mile loop. In ‘08 1200 riders showed up, making it more like a happening than an ordinary ride session.
Lastly, I saw a bunch of photo bugs shooting away and enjoying the first decent day in Northern Ohio in several months. For any of you reading this that would like to have your photos featured in our photo gallery hit me up at jpellan@atvscene.com
Okay on to the photos…
