Bumps N Berms State Championship Qualifier

With a track that is progressively down hill you expect to go fast, but just how fast? So fast that you tell the other riders where you are in the hopes everyone makes it out of the turn safely. As I photographed from turn one, I would hear riders say to each other, “I’m on your inside!”, then here the screeching sound of brakes. The more experienced riders just hit the apex of the turn, coming out with more speed than they went in with.

If you haven’t had the chance to ride a track that is progressively downhill, I strongly suggest doing so, it’s an experience all in itself.

With an evening race scheduled, we couldn’t ask for better weather. The air was cool and calm, perfect to keep the riders comfortable and confident in their riding. The moto count was good, with about 40 moto’s and 2 gates of 16x the crowd was sure to see some action.

"Clippless" Dave Kagel jumping his way with confidence to a qualifying spot in the main.

The first round of qualifiers went well, with a few surprises. The first was Brandon Roberts, who had suffered a separation in his shoulder a few weeks back at the Hampton National in Virgina, but to the crowds surprise he was riding and looking strong, wearing his brace. He should be 100% for the Quaker State Nationals which will be on his home track. The second surprise was to see “Lighting” Liz Pastwaters competing again. Liz had an impressive amateur career before taking off for a few seasons.

"Lighting" Liz Pastwaters making her appearance in the 17 and over girls class.

Brandong Roberts #1 leading Dave Damascus #3 and Brandon Buynum #9.

Both the first and second round of qualifiers went well. Lots of brake checking in the turns and some nice jumping going into turn one. It wasn’t until the main event that the excitement kicked in. During the cruiser main event, Brandon Roberts was leading his class and decided to take the Pro-section, his line was smooth, but slower. Ultimately his decision cost him the win to Dave Damascus who stayed on the amateur side.

The 17-18 expert class was the class to watch, with two gates in the 17-18x and a stacked main event there was going to be some fierce racing. The main event was action packed with an unknown Powers Bike shop rider putting the move on Tommy “The Missal” Missal going into turn one for the win.

Thomas "The Missal" Missal #2 leading the 16x main event.

Going down the last straight there was a crash between TJ Schneider and a local PA rider. TJ, coming off of a broken collar bone, took the worst of the crash. They where going into the last turn when the local PA rider started going over the berm, TJ being a right on his tail, tried to avoid him, but it was too late, they both crashed, TJ flipped over and landed on his back and shoulder. The ambulance was called, luckily there were no major injuries.

TJ Schneider (downed rider) taking the worst of the crash.

Be sure to check out the full gallery here.