This past weekend was the 27th running of Laguna Beaches famous Leapin Lizard downhill race. We think this is the longest consecutively running DH race in the world, but we would like to hear if that is false...
This year I had a new weapon to use, the HD mojo. I little more travel, some slacker angles, stiffer tubes, a through axle in the rear and it all made going faster a bit easier. The course changes every year and this year was no different. With all the rain we had a couple months ago the bottom section had a slight re-routing. But with how hot and dry it has been in the past month, the course was hard pack and slick, a far cry from the perfect conditions of last year.
With just over 50 riders, all RADS, affiliates, or special invites the race was as fun as always. Sticking with tradition it is a two run format, both times combined, and you have to hike up the course both runs.
My first run was fast and I let it all hang out. I ended up beating Kevin Aiello by 7 seconds, which surprised me a bit as last year Kevin was only a second or two behind me. So my second run I played it a bit more conservative, I went 1 second slower, but still beat Kevin by 4 seconds in that run.
Thanks to all the RADS for another great Lizard and for all those who did work on the trail and helped with the event.
photo/CarmenFreeman 
photo/RussHennings