Taylor Kiser, 2009 Ironman GNCC
- Updated: November 2, 2009
By Taylor Kiser
Photos by Amy McConnell
After the St. Clairsville Ohio event I headed back down to Florida to continue my training regimen. While home I was also able to compete in an FTR race the week before the Ironman. I headed north the week prior to the last race of 2009 with one goal in mind; to finish as close to the front as possible. I knew that if I could put together a solid race I would earn the number two plate for the 2010 season.
As the morning race unfolded I remained as calm as possible; I knew that I had put in an immense amount of effort before every race and this one was no exception. I felt ready and confident as I waited for the ten second call. I had a decent jump off the line and as the Pro class charged for the first corner I was near the front but immediately pushed myself to get into the top three. It took me longer than I had hoped but by the second lap I had worked my way into third place and by the third lap I had took over the second place position.
As we took the white flag I was within striking distance of the lead but the top four of us were not giving up ground; as we all battled it was important to pick smart lines. As I made it to the Ironman hill climb I picked a line and pinned the gas. When I crested the top of the hill a rider had spun the tires which caused me to hit him. I lost all momentum and my quad started down the hill. So many spectators came to aid which I am very thankful for. Together they all got my quad back to the top and I was able to get back into the race. I knew I had lost a great deal of time but I pushed as hard as I ever had to get to the checkered flag.
I took the checkered flag in eighth place which is not where I would have liked to finish; but this was enough to secure the number two plate for the 2010 season! I went from number six to number two which is a great accomplishment! This year was great; I have a lot of great sponsors and supporters that have a hand in my successful season and I cannot thank them enough; Yamaha, Houser, Ohlins, HMF, Maxxis, Mike Kiser Welding, Raber Industries, T&K Cycles, HiPer, Moto X Nutrition, Fly, Powermadd, Fasst, Ballance Racing, Precision Racing, Rath Racing, GT Thunder, DP Brakes, G4 graphics, Derek Tremain- ARS Powersports, Baldwin Motorsports, Big Nutz Racing, Chester Vet Clinic, Jason Lyons – Mona Vie, Spectro Oils, Tire Balls, Exposed Clothing, Albright Motorsports, IMS and Eden Winery
