Colorado Crankworx wrapped up on Sunday under rainy skies. Racers had to deal with the ever-increasing rains and declining track conditions. Waylon Smith took the victory for the men, while Jill Kintner won the lady's.
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Words and Photos by Dean Henthorn
Using a smart qualifying strategy and a solid run Waylon Smith of Great Britain piloted his Mongoose to a victory in the PRO GRT Downhill that was part of the Crankworx weekend at Winter Park. Smith used a no hurry strategy in qualifying to ensure he would be the first one down the hill ahead of any potential weather. And his strategy paid off nicely as he put in a solid run to take the top podium position just before the rains came.
Kevin Aiello on his way to 6th place aboard his GT steed.
The only rider to air over this rock section, top qualifier Logan Binggeli, ended up in third place.
Jason Memmelaar bagged two podium spots this weekend, first in dual and second in DH.
Jason Memmelaar continued his most excellent weekend and followed up his dual slalom victory by capturing second place. The East coast rider for Team Giant/Hayes was very stoked and will have some great memories (and cash in his pocket) for his long drive back to New York. Memmelaar is a great guy with a great attitude.
Brian Buell snagged the final podium position.
Future US racing star Bryson Martin winning Junior Expert.
With steady rain falling for the top 15 qualifiers, the track became progressively slower. Of the top qualifiers only Logan Binggeli (No.1 qualifier) team KHS, could manage to hang on to a podium position. Taking third place, ten seconds off the pace Binggeli was the only rider to boost the rock section.
Kieran Bennett en route to fourth place.
The podium was rounded out by Kieran Bennett of DRD/Tomac racing and Brian Buell of Team Geronimo/Banshee bikes. Buell took second in the dual slalom held on Thursday giving him a nice shot of confidence and cash.
Melissa Buhl (pictured) and Jill Kintner have had an epic battle this season. Congrats to both of them for keeping it interesting!
On the Womens side, Jill Kintner won by one second over arch rival Melissa Buhl. Jackie Harmony managed to once again took a podium spot despite having to fight of a serious head cold on the long course.
Jackie Harmony piloting her way into third place.
Jill Kintner was the golden girl this weekend, winning both the dual and the DH.
The course was the longest of the season taking 6:30 seconds for the winning pro men. The ProGRT now takes a break until the weekend of September 11th, when the racing will resume at Whiteface. This will be the final race of the year, and promises to boast a great lineup of top racers.
