Wigwam\Ultimax MTB Challenge

By Rich Uttech

After almost a year in the planning, the 8^{th Annual Wigwam/Ultimax Mountain Bike Challenge is over. And another year of WORS racing has come to a close. It was a successful year with the Fat Kats winning both the participation and competition for small clubs this year. And congratulations to Tristan and Brian on finishing first and second again this year in the expert class.}

Even though Mother Nature tried to dilute our race this year, the Fat Kats overcame her and put on what I feel was one of the best races I was involved in in my 3 years of WORS and membership in the Fat Kats. There are so many people to thank for their part in this year’s race that I don’t know where to start. Thanks to the Trail Bosses, Cliff and Brett, and their crew for getting the trails in shape for the race. Thanks to all who helped with the marking and other duties on Saturday and Sunday. Everyone knew what had to be done and just went to work and did it. It seemed like the only job I had all weekend was to order the pizza.

Thanks to Doc for taking charge of the Sprint preems and the Kid’s Race. Whenever there was something to be done it seems like Doc was there ready to take it on. And thanks to Boone for taking care of the start/finish line duties. He knows just what to do and gets it done on time.

To my wife, Deb, for heading up the registration team, a big thanks. Thanks to Deb Edgerle, Carrie, MaryAnn, Diane, Mary, and Kim for helping at registration. You all kept things running smoothly.

Thanks to the Moose Lodge for doing the food this year. Their taking on the food duties is a big job and they did it to perfection. And to Boy Scout Troop 801 for the excellent job parking cars again this year, thanks.

Thanks to my podium girl, Jill. It was her first year working with us but you couldn’t tell. She caught on right away, and worked like a seasoned veteran all day long.

“Tinker” Juarez, he was here and made quite an impression on a large number of people at the race on Sunday. He is really an ambassador of the sport. Thanks for making a stop here in Sheboygan.

Thanks to all our sponsors. If not for your support, our club and our race would not be able to survive. A special thanks to Josh at Back Door Bike Shop for his donation of the Cannondale Woody bicycle for our raffle and the gift certificates for all the first place finishers at our race.

What can I say about Wigwam? Coming up with $1500 preem money for the hill and socks for all the racers, fantastic! And what about those banners on the Equalizer, those were great. Thanks Wigwam for coming on board and making this year an unforgettable year for the Wigwam/Ultimax Challenge. We’re proud to have you as our Title Sponsor.

No one can foretell the future, but the one thing I do know is that The Fat Kats and Wigwam will again put on the best race in the WORS series next year, and we can all be proud to be a part of it. Thanks again for all your help and support. You made my year as race director a memorable one.

Richard Uttech

Race Director - 8th Annual Wigwam/Ultimax Mountain Bike Challenge