Race Report: Disney Cup National, Orlando, FL Oct. 22-24, 2010
Orlando BMX was host to the penultimate round of the national series, the Disney Cup. McKenna had a hectic day of travel the day prior to racing, getting herself, her manager and mechanic, and all her gear from San Diego to sunny central Florida. Arriving at the track on Friday for National #1, McKenna was greeted by an awesome track and even more awesome humidity.
Ten 8 year old girls, some of the fastest in the nation, were on hand to battle it out for the weekend. As the gates dropped, McKenna rode solid and consistent, to transfer out of her qualifying rounds, and make Friday's main event. With the help of the steepness of the gate, and some good leg speed, McKenna was able to finish 5th out of the full gate.
Saturday morning saw more of the same heat and humidity, and more of the same fierce competition. McKenna was able to transfer to her main event by riding steady and smart. It was evident the weather was beginning to affect her. With a good lane assignment, and an awesome pass in the last turn, McKenna crossed the line in 4th position out of the full gate of eight girls. This great result was made even more special by having her Mam Mam, Uncles, Aunt, and cousins there to witness it.
Sunday morning started bright and early with the first gate falling at 8:00 sharp. McKenna had a good start, but pedal through the first turn, she lost her chain. Heroically, she tried in vain to stay in the race and get a transfer spot, but it was impossible with her blown transmission. After some stern words to her mechanic, he was able to get her bike dialed in time for the second round. After a shady first round, McKenna hung on to get the last transfer spot and qualify for the day's main event. Coming out of lane 7, and trying to negotiate tight traffic, 6th place was the best she could do. Racing was over, and it was off to get cleaned up, packed up, and shuttled to the airport.
The race weekend was over, and all that was left was the long flight home. With McKenna having to miss two days of school, she needed to do a lot of homework throughout the trip home. Remember kids,"Education First!". Overall the entire race weekend was very successful, very challenging, and very fun. McKenna would like to deeply thank all her family that came out to watch and support her. Also a huge thank you to the Georgia contingent for their shade, hospitality, support and camaraderie. Best of luck to McKenna's new friend, 7yr. old intermediate, Preston Evans, at the ABA Grand Nationals next month.