The Knobscorcher is perennially the biggest East Coast cross country race and the most cherished race to win among Southeastern mountain bikers. This years’ event once again drew large fields, with over 400 riders competing. BTD’s Charlie Storm was looking to repeat his win from two years ago, but it was teammate Charlie Pendry who drove the pace the entire day in the 25 rider, Pro men’s field. Storm fell of the main group of 6 riders 45 minutes
into the race and rode the remainder of the 2 hour 15 minute race alone, finishing in sixth place.

Pendry controlled a group of 5 Pro riders that included Thomas Turner, Andy Johnston, John Lam and Brian Schworm. Pendry couldn’t shake up the group enough on the short climbs characteristic of Tsali trails to break it apart. Pendry ended up 4th place in the 5 man tactical battle. Brian Schworm of Berea KY won the race.

In the master’s 35+ race, Rob Moran led his field from the gun and into the woods. ‘Wrong Turn Rob’, went right instead of left at the first turn, relegated himself to last place in the 50+-rider field, and simply chased his way back to 3rd place. No problem.

Other INLAND-BTD riders competing, but not having their best day were, Mike Lockhart and Scott Whitworth. Scott and Mike will be resuming their popular Thursday mountain bike group ride in Cary this week. Their ride last year usually had 15-20 riders and is expected to continue to be well attended this year.

Master 50+ expert Chuck Meek, of INLAND-BTD, also competed in the 35 mile XC race.

Upcoming Inland-BTD Events:

Apr 14-17: Sea Otter Classic, Monterrey, CA
Charlie Pendry, Laura Bowles and team mechanic/guru, Frank Jones, will be attending Sea Otter in California, competing against the best riders in the world.

Apr 17: Cane Creek/AMBC Series Tiger Rag XC, Clemson, SC
Storm, Scott Whitworth, Rob Moran and Mike Lockhart will be at another highly attended, southeastern racer favorite.