MTB Race #2: Manti

The second Mountain Bike Race of the season was held in Manti.  Even though the kids had never ridden this course before, it was a good experience for Colby and Emily. 

We got to Manti later than expected, so after getting the trailer leveled and set up, it was starting to get dark and the preride time was ending.  The kids got to preride while we were doing the trailer but Russell was not able to preride this course with them. They told us it was one of the funnest courses. There were quick switchbacks, some tabletop areas, and other technical areas.  Like all races, Manti was full of dust and a lot of sun. 

Colby raced first thing in the morning on Saturday.  Colby has come a long way in his riding ability. He is insane on his downhill even Russell has a hard time keeping up with him on some rides. He comes across the finish line tired every time and gives his all. 

With this race Colby was 50th and his time was 32:43. He has a goal to get under 30 minutes next year. He will get his goal. Russell asked him one time if we should give up racing and just did mountain biking for fun. Colby said, "No Dad I like racing and being part of the team, it is my time to be on my own and ride." He is amazing and Russell loves being his Dad and Coach.  

Emily is amazing on her bike as well. She has a great time riding and has come a long way with her racing. 

She is so patient the whole day. Her race time is late in the afternoon, so it gets to be a struggle when you are in the heat and stir crazy trying to wait. Her nerves get to her and I don't blame her. It would be a struggle to wait all day to race. When it is race time, though, she puts on her race face and off she goes. 

This race was fun and good for her, she came in at 50th and a time of 1 hour and 15 minutes with 2 laps.  We were all so happy that the race was not cancelled like last time.  The weather was good this time around.  Emily does get frustrated when girls pass her on races but she stays focused and pushes through.  Great job Emily!! I love riding with you and seeing you excel and have fun. 

Once the race was over, we left Russell and headed to St. George.  Russell had to go back to work while we went down St. George to see Jess and Danny go through the temple. 

 On the way there we made a pit stop in Salina and visited Great Grandma and Grandpa Morwood's grave site to said hi to them.  This was the first time we had been to the cemetery since Grandma died.  It was nice to visit and hang out for a bit.  We finally made it to St. George late that night.