U.S. Open Nationals - Chula Vista, CA. - Sept 18-20, 2009

U.S. Open Nationals, Chula Vista, CA. Sept. 18, 19 and 20, 2009.

What some people are describing as "the biggest race of the year" on "the best track in the nation", got underway this past Friday. Located on the Olympic Training Center in Chula Vista, CA , this newly built ABA BMX race track was the site of three straight days of competition. Friday started of with a full day of practice, followed by an evening Pre-Race (not considered a National). Saturday was National #1, and Sunday being National #2.

With a little bit of hesitation and apparent nervousness, McKenna started practicing the track under the scorching sun. She soon got comfortable with the length and steepness of the track, and was ready for Friday evenings Pre-Race.

The Pre-Race started at 6:00 pm, and thankfully the temperature had started to cool down. She transferred into the main event in her first round, and finished in third in the main.

Saturdays racing proved to be a little more difficult, with McKenna finishing fourth. The heat of the day seemed to take its toll on all the young racers. Sundays racing was much better, even though temperatures were even higher. McKenna got a great start in her main, and battled to finish third.

McKenna was very satisfied and proud of her accomplishments in her first ever National. She followed up her weekend performance with another win at Cactus Park on Monday night. This puts her total wins at 6, just 2 away from upgrading.