12 Hours of Pain and Purpose mountain bike challenge a success

The 12 Hours of Pain and Purpose, which took place this past Saturday in Tempe, was a great success according to event organizers.

Over 170 racers participated, up from 114 in 2008, and raised an estimated $3,000 to $4,000 dollars for the Sydney Hudson Foundation.

“The weather was incredible, warm 75 degrees and sunny with a light cloud cover keeping the athletes cool enough from the afternoon sun,” Said race organizer Timothy Bolen. “Perfect racing conditions.”

The race featured teams and solo male and female riders who biked on a 7.5 mile loop for 12 hours. Several teams including teams from Bicycle Haus, Luna Chixs, Landis Racing Team, BFC Racing Team, World Motors/Schampa and of course Team Fat Tire participated.

The competition for the male solo group title was fierce. Nationally ranked Kimo Seymour and Taylor Lindeen battled it out for a majority of the race. Seymour, last years winner, led Lindeen by 5 minutes after the first 6 hours. After 11 hours Seymour expanded his lead over Lindeen to 13 minutes. In the final hour Lindeen realized that Seymour’s lead was insurmountable and bowed out. Lindeen finished at 22 laps for a total of 165 miles ridden. Seymour won with 24 laps for 180 miles, an average of 15 miles per hour.

The female solo race was dominated by Windy Marks. She finished with an impressive 19 laps for 142.5 miles. Her closest competitor was Laurel Arnst who finished with 17 laps for 127.5 miles.

The event was held in memory of Sydney Hudson and the proceeds went to the Sydney Hudson Foundation. The foundation provides services and equipment to special needs children and their families.

In honor of Sydney all awards were presented by her older sister Taylor and a video about the foundation was shown to all racers.

The 2009 event was a great success but 2010 looks like it will be even better.

“The great news is we expect double the attendance next year. We should expect close to 400 riders next year,” Said Bolen.

For more information on the visit www.excelandbeyondcoaching.com.

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