Marty Michels' Big Hill Race Report (2006)

Race Report: Kentucky Off Road Hare Scrambles Series (KORHS) - Round 10
Rider: Marty Michels - Bike 2nd Place
Bike: 06 KTM 450 #34

It is a shame that the season has come to an end and at the final round of the Ky. H.S. Series I know a lot of people were somewhat glad. I was not able to attend every single event this year, but out of all the ones that I have ridden this one was the toughest. I was really looking forward to this race all week after coming back from racing out west the previous weekend. It was a good experience, but there was not a tree in sight! So racing back home was a welcome relief, plus these events are always good fun and the people are the best. Well, my race day morning starts off like it usually does for these races. Getting up at 6:30, waiting on my boy Whitey to arrive, loading up the silver bullet (my van), and driving a couple hours. It was a quick drive, thanks to my extremely heavy right foot.

Come noon time we all lined up and waited for the flag to drop or be raised, but I think she got a little confused which way to move it. Anyhoo, I finally got the hole shot, which for once I wish I had not because I heard people talking all morning about all of the rocks on the course that were hidden under the leaves. It was kind of funny to because I was going really slow hoping Alan or Loupie would pass me because I did not want to lead and be the guinea pig. Which of course neither did they. I continued my pace in cruise control until about a mile from the finish and I made a mistake and Alan was there to capitalize. Needless to say my day, got worse. About half way around the second lap I found myself leading the trio and that is when I made a really dumb move and tried using that little broken down pallet bridge for a jump over one of the water holes. Well, the water hole won. I was covered in mud and water and was feeling like a complete idiot. At that point I thought there was no way I was going to be able to catch back up to Al and Loupie. My gloves were soaked and I was having the hardest time holding on.

I think I rode around by myself for a couple of laps, just cruising and checking out the scenery and waving at the ladies. You all know what I am talking about. After riding like crap for a couple of laps and acting like a sniveler, I caught up to Loupie some how and that kind of gave me a second wind as we latched on to one another. Things started coming back to me, (gas is on the right and clutch is on the left) but before I knew it Loupie was gone and I was in the lead. I was really confused and kind of bummed because it seems like every time I come to one of these races I always ride all day by myself. Luckily, Alan caught up and that is when the battle began.

We picked up the pace big time and were having a ball. I would lead for a while and then Al would lead, all the while zigzagging through traffic and trees. Alan and I have been racing against each other for years and we know what is expected out of one another. So I was really comfortable pushing the pace with him. It was so cool It felt like we were racing for a world championship because of all of the people cheering for us in the woods. I think I also heard other riders hollering too or maybe they were cussing at us. I don't know, but what a good time. This went on for what seemed to be an eternity, but I screwed up my last ditch effort to get around, when I spun coming out of corner trying to get a drive on him. It happens, but I figured I'd let Alan get his confidence back up too. (Ha Ha)

Alan beat me fair and square and he even did a victory lap. Thanks for rubbing it in Al! Congrats to him and a special thanks to the Hollenkamp's, Anness's, and everyone else who makes these races happen. I always get treated very well at these events and the generosity I receive from these people is awesome. You guys keep it up and now you can go and have a drink because you did a fine job in your first season and I look forward to many more! I also have to give a big thank you to all my sponsors, friends, and family for constantly encouraging and motivating me year after year. C-Ya soon!!

Marty Michels

Thanks to my sponsors: Maxxis tires, Rex's Cycle Shop, House of Horsepower Suspension, Caywoodslawn.com, All-finish Concrete Const., Suomy, Clarke mfg., Dirtricks.com, Tireballs, Answer, Berik, Decal Works, No-toil, Scott, Tag Metals, SRC, SDG, Pro-Wheel, Moto-master, DP Brakes, SixSixOne, and IMS