Sisters mountain bikers on a roll

(Left-right): Chris Boyle, Crystal Leis, Sam Pyke, Conner Burck, Mark Keel, Joe Taft, Brian Henry and Harry Womack. Photo by Kathryn Godsiff

Sisters High School mountain bike club started its competitive season on a winning note.

At the Mudslinger race in Blodgett on April 6, the cyclists finished 40 points ahead of closest rival, Summit.

The mountain bike club consists of 17 members, up from around eight last season. Rider/ coach Mark Keel is pleased with the response and is quick to note that the club isn't just for those who wish to compete.

"There are some who come on training rides with us but don't race," he said. "That's what makes this a club, not just a competition team."

Word about the club got out around the high school, and riders have been practicing since early March.

Five veterans returned from last year. Seniors Anna Morton, Lee Pyke, and Nick Yopp and juniors Connor Burck and Nick Pierce give depth and experience to the competitive team.

The remaining members are all in their first year of racing, but will be a force to be reckoned with, judging from the results of the first race.

The Mudslinger (aptly named) consisted of 10 mile loops, each with a 1,500 foot vertical gain. The beginner course was one loop, the Sport course, two.

Connor Burck claimed second in the Sport Junior Men (15-18 years). Burck moved into the Sport category after competing at beginner level last year.

Freshman Harry Womack, in the first race of his career, snatched second place in the Beginner Junior Men.

Freshman Crystal Leis got off to a great start with a win in the Beginner Junior Women.

Keel was delighted with the results, particularly since mud is not usual terrain for Sisters athletes to perform in.

The competitive team members are registered with the Oregon Bike Racing Association, which sanctions 15 races during the spring and summer season. The five races which make up the high school series are piggybacked onto sanctioned races.

"The high school races are chosen based on the promoters' willingness to work with the high school teams," said Keel. "The school series has gained in popularity and statewide is very strong."

The next race will be the Bear Springs Trap on April 27 at Mt. Hood.

As is the case with most of the minor sports within the school, the team enjoys a good amount of parental support. As well, the famous Sisters community back-up is much appreciated.

There will be an opportunity to show that support at a fund-raising car wash which the team will hold on Saturday, April 26 at Space Age Gas.

Cost will be on a donation basis and tickets will be available for purchase prior to the day. Contact Sisters High School at 549-4045 or a mountain bike racer.