AZ State Cross Championships
AZ Cross…always less than more. I suppose the typically fine weather that the majority of this state experiences keeps it that way. Why suffer if it’s easier to get a tan in the backyard of your new suburbia home. That being the case, the thin cross culture that is here, resides primarily in flagstaff with the exception of a few exports who wander back to the hinterland for the annual occurence that is “the state championships”. This year, the series and the championship final was put on once again by the fine peeps of NAU. The course this year was exceptional as it included all the elements that make cross what it is; steep runs, grass fields, pavement and dirt in a classy ten minute lap.
Both Rubelt and Keller made it up from their respective comfort zones (Tucson & phx) to embrace sunny skies and numbingly cold 30 degree temps on Sunday to contend for the bragging rights. From the gun, a ten-ish rider field set out with a group off the front that strung out 4 riders by mid way. Jake, who sat patiently in second for the first half, made his decisive attack when Rainey stumbled on the lat of two run-ups. 
From there, the case was closed in regard to first as Rubelt stretche his lead to about a minute over the field by the closing bell. Keller hung on for second and then Rainey and then…then Tool-shed Timmy closed the books for the 5th spot. At least, that’s what I think…maybe he was 4th or 6th…ah, who cares. He looked to be hurting the whole time as with everyone but when you see ol Tool-shed coming, and he’s all bound up in pain, he still makes it look fun.
And so that’s it. Another year of cross in the books.
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