Florida State Championship series #8 / CC make up – Santos Trails – Ocala, Fl
What a fine way to end the 30th annual FSC season, the trails were in perfect shape, the temperatures were mild and the excitement was in the air as the ’22 season wrote its final chapter. Many thanks to the Ocala Mountain Bike Association (OMBA) for building, maintaining and helping with the event.
The course was a tough one this year with three notable sections that kept the racers busy during the 7.5 mile loop. This trail is also notorious for mechanical problems especially flat tires and chain issues due to the somewhat rocky surface in technical spots (more on that).
One can always count on close racing at the final and that was certainly the case on this day as many championships were decided by the slimmest of margins and some drama was also in the mix.
Probably the biggest drama on the day was in the men’s elite class as current champ Ryan Woodall, who had a 10 point lead going into the race and on his home trail had a flat tire mid way through the race. Suddenly what seemed like a sure thing (repeating as champion in ’22) was up in the air. Challenger and two time former champ Victor Alber did what he needed to do and won the race. Woodall however needed to finish 10th or better to secure the title but instead could only manage a 17th after his rear wheel almost totally fell apart. So Victor claimed the win and the title (now his third). And in a show of sportsmanship, Victor graciously offered Ryan the ROY award (rider of the year) as gesture for his efforts during the series. In the women’s championship there was not quite as much drama as Simone Berger locked it up a win on the day and in fact a perfect season. As a result the Pemon Cycling Wear leaders jersey presentation featured Simone Berger and Victor Alber.
Team Leroy’s Lynx once again logged great results and padded their points lead to claim the team competition championship.
The Gear Bicycle sales E MTB series race was won by Kelly Jones in the women’s and Rogerio Filho in the men’s. Both also claimed their respective championships.
The FSC Banquet was held at a new location this year, the College of Central Florida and served a full house of almost 250 folks. Many thanks to all of the racers, families, support folks and sponsors that made the series a big success. Along with class champions and top five awardees, there were special awards which included…
Rider of the Year Male: Ryan Woodall
Rider of the Year Female: Simone Berger
Most Improved Rider Male: Ryan Miller
Most Improved Rider Female: Crystal Pena
Most Improved Junior: Benjamin Fountain
Best Supporting Cast: Leroy’s Bike works
ESPO Sportsmanship: Ryan Woodall
Legacy: Victor Alber
Congrats to all, have a great holiday season and we hope to see you next year at the races!
