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Specialized Racing USA Attacks the Sea Otter

Oct 20, 2009
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<p>The Specialized Racing USA Mountain bike team was joined by Global team members Todd Wells for the weekend and came to Sea Otter with high expectations. Todd Wells was defending Short Track Champion and Max Plaxton was looking to improve from 2010 where lingering illness derailed his race weekend. Lea Davison wanted a podium result to cement her return from last season’s injury and prove she’s ready for national and international competition.</p><p>
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Specialized Racing came in as the top ranked team in the USA and didn’t disappoint. A fast and furious Men’s Short Track started the racing and immediately Max, Todd and Sid Taberlay opened a gap on the field. With four laps to go, Max was able to have one powerful attack giving him a strong lead. Perfect team tactics followed and Max raced to a 10 second victory while Todd and Sid sprinted it out with Sid beating Todd for second by a tire. </p><p>
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In the women’s race Lea Davison held a strong second place until a mid-race crash sent her to the dirt. A quick recovery and a hard fight brought her back to 6th place and a good opener prior to Saturday’s Pro XCT cross country.</p><p>
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Fast forward to Saturday – and the roles reversed. Todd opened up a gap with Jeremy Bishop after three laps and Max went across the gap to help his teammate. A tag-team attacking strategy opened up a big gap for Todd and Max rode away from a tired Bishop for a One – Two Specialized Racing finish. This marks the third year in a row that Specialized has won the men’s short track and men’s XC at the Sea Otter Classic.</p><p>
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In the women’s race – Lea Davison again found herself up against three Luna Chicks and two Trek- Subaru teammates. A tough fight saw her racing solo for three laps in fourth before being joined by Team Sho-Air / Specialized athlete Pua Mata and two others. These four chased the front group with Lea winning the sprint for fourth place. </p><p>
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With three of six Pro XCT races complete Max is currently ranked 1st in the USA with Todd Wells 3rd. On the women’s side Lea is ranked 2nd but tied for points with Emily Batty. Specialized USA is also the top ranked team in the USA!</p>

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