Olympians and jumpers, only semi-wild

Most people think of California and picture sunbathing on the beach under palm trees. If you can't remember the last time you were out on your bike or just for a walk, this spring bike festival lets you participate as much as you want, or just watch. There are many different reasons to be there, but everyone seems to agree that the Sea Otter Classic races and outdoor bike show makes them feel good.

Laguna Seca hides in the hills above Monterey, about three hours south of San Francisco. It's home to race cars speeding around turns on its winding track most of the warm months. But it belongs to bicyclists for four spring days. The Sea Otter Classic is part bike show, part bike races, and part excuse to be outside having fun. There are rides for road and mountain bikes, races to watch or compete in, and a show of the latest bikes, components and cycling clothes.

Close to the big jump course you might need a hard hat and a sharp eye for falling bikes and their riders. Remember the feelings of immortality you had in your twenties and you'll understand why these guys do it: http://tinyurl.com/dc7ze

Australians aren't known for their modesty. Grinning hugely after his first-ever dual slalom win, Nathan Rennie said, "I was real strong. The other guys are all pussies anyway!" Later after the congratulations died down he admitted, "I got lucky today." http://tinyurl.com/8kd2l

U.S. Olympian Alison Dunlap led the field at the start of the short-track cross-country race: http://tinyurl.com/d8oro She couldn't keep it up, falling behind winner Katerina Hanusova from the Czech Republic, second place Canadian Alison Sydor, and the top American Sue Haywood in third: http://tinyurl.com/dqwl4

Sometimes you just try not to run over anybody: http://tinyurl.com/aeolr

After short-track cross country's twenty-minute all-out sufferfest or risking crashes in the dual slalom, victory is sweet - especially with cash prizes: http://tinyurl.com/d6ulq

More images at http://tinyurl.com/78nm4

All comments welcome.


Mark Bohrer
Mountain and Desert Photography
www.mountain-and-desert.com
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