Ashland Spring Thaw Results at Bones Over Metal Freeride and Downhill Video Blog

The 7th annual Spring Thaw Downhill came to Ashland, Oregon last weekend on May 4, 2008. The Downhill ran 1.7 miles down Catwalk to Toothpick Trail. The trail first ran down through a rock garden into a double that led to a balls out speedy highway section. The trail then proceeded to wind its way through a bunch of switchbacks into a hell bent 60 yard uphill climb to the finish.

The race started at 11:00 and the sun came out for a gorgeous mid 80-degree day. The pros came thundering out of the start gate and the fun began. The WTB team with Mark Weir, Curtis Beavers, and Jason Moeschler had a strong performance. It was rumored that Mark Weir had the flu and he was pedaling like mad to reach the bathroom at the end.

However it was Jared Hobbs with Team Ashland that would take the home field advantage and claim the 1st overall time. Jared ran a lighting quick 4:16.65 to edge out Curtis Beavers and Mark Weir who ran a 4:17.34 and 4:19.02. It was a new course record but there were a couple changes to the course after heavy snows in February. Jared said that “he knew the course and tried to stay relaxed while he nailed his lines. Afterwards I felt like I had a solid run but was surprised that my time was that low. I feel that my training is paying off and I am exited to race in the upcoming Fluidride cup.”

Sadly, Nathan Riddle, a local pro riding for Fluidride, couldn’t compete due to a wrist fracture from Weir’s infamous pump-track. We wish him a speedy recovery and hope to see him in couple more races later on in the season.

The rest of the day went off great and the semi-pro through beginner classes went off without a hitch. Every member from Team Ashland got on the podium. A mention has to go to Bill Roussel with Ashland Mountain Adventures for shuttling the 169 racers that entered the event. Bill is starting up a shuttle to service Ashland’s trails and will be shuttling customers throughout the summer.

The end of the day was filled with food, beer, and some hardware given out to the fastest in each class. After raffle prizes, people started filtering down the Ashland trail network with huge grins on their faces, enjoying the great weather. The event was a huge success and Ashland is looking forward to hosting the Super D on Sunday June, 11, 2008.

Article and photos by Greg Stafford

Results:

Pro- Open Class

1. Jared Hobbs- Team Ashland/ Formula 04:16.65
2. Curtis Beavers- WTB 04:17.34
3. Mark Weir- WTB 04:19.02

Semi-Pro

1. Erich Weidenkeller- Chain Gang Bike Shop 04:28.34
2. Lared De Long- Pirate DH Revolution 04:28.81
3. Devon Lyons- 04:36.84

Full Results Here