ACME CX #4

The final race in the ACME Cyclocross series was held today at Ralph Cole Arboretum. The turnout wasn't quite as good as yesterday with just over 20 people coming out today compared with about 35 yesterday. The course was the same as the previous race except it was run in reverse.

The race got off to fast start as would be expected with John Eppen, Billy Colsen, Casey Skyburg and Chad Carpenter getting an early lead on the rest of the field. James Stone and Jon Nelson were together just behind the lead group. When the leading 4 hit the very steep run up/ride up/stairs section Eppen and Carpenter got a large advantage. Eppen was driving the pace with Carpenter yo yo-ing on and off of his wheel. Just behind Skyburg was driving the pace trying to close the gap. Eventually Skyburg and Colsen were caught by Stone and Nelson.

Back at the front Carpenter lost contact with Eppen through the run up (3rd lap) and was dropped like a brick in the ocean. By that time, Stone and Nelson were chasing together with Colsen chasing solo 20 seconds back from them, followed by Skyburg 35 seconds back.

John Eppen never looked back and was strong through the finish taking the victory in what will be his final cyclocross race of the season in the Black Hills. Carpenter managed to hold the chasers off and took 2nd. Stone and Nelson finished together with Stone taking 3rd in the uncontested sprint.

Jim Meyer of Quarq was extremely generous and awared Tim Rangitsh of ACME a Quarq power meter for all the hard work and effort he put in promoting the 4 free races this season. A nice gesture. If you need a power meter, consider a Quarq they are BOSS.

Podium
1) John Eppen (Quarq)
2) Chad Carpenter (Carpenter Dental)
3) James Stone (Scheels)

Final Race is Dec. 4th. SD State Championship

See previous blog post for details.