April 18, 1998, Valley Falls State Park
Valley Falls Challenge

Bob Vernon on his final lap at Valley Falls

Over 40 mountain bikers hit the trails on Saturday at Valley Falls State Park to raise money for the Valley Falls Foundation. As always, all the riders greatly appreciated the volunteered support of local clubs and organizations. The Gear Pushers Club of Fairmont did an excellent job of handling the event and thanks goes out to the Valley Falls Rangers and Marion County Rescue Squad.

The course consisted of a 6.5 mile double and single track loop through the picturesque spring landscape of Valley Falls. Plenty of mud and an approximate 28 minute ascent for the first climb made for a challenging ride. Experts completed four laps, sports completed three, veterans, masters, beginners and junior experts did two laps, while junior beginners and clydesdales got off lucky with only one lap.

Julie Schooley at Valley Falls

Tim Willis took home the big winnings after finishing 1st place in the mens expert division. Bob Vernon, less than two minutes behind, finished 2nd. Thad Kelley, the remaining expert had to bail out due to a mechanical after the second lap.

Where are all the women mountain bikers? Cheers to Julie Schooley, 1st place in the womens veterans category, for showing them how its done!

Kevin Leyh and trophy

Laird Knight, President of WVMBA took 1st place in mens veterans. Congratulations to all the following winners of their respective divisions: Steve Riedman, Nathan Fergurson, Kevin Leyh, Scott Arnold and Jonathon Martin.