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The Chris Davidson diary
Chris Davidson is a former mechanic for Bontrager Racing Service, now in the service of Shimano Multi-Service.
Chris' diary entries will show you what life is like inside the pits and an insight into the mind of a mechanic.
NORBA finals - Durango, Colorado, August 26-29, 2004
A little 'Gold Bond'
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Competition started today; there was amateur XC and MTNX. The legends started to emerge in Durango early this morning when Missy Giove was in our tent, looking for some parts help. Greg 'Chopper' Randolph showed up in the tent today and was in a good mood; Smith Optics is sponsoring some bull riding on Saturday night. John Tomac was spotted walking the pit today wearing his trademark cowboy hat. Still no Bob Roll or Mike Engleman, but the weekend is just underway.
The weather was driving me nuts today. Still sunny, large dark clouds drifted across the sky today and the temperature would seem to drop 20 degrees. I started today out wearing a jacket, but every time it was warm enough that I decided to stop working, wash my hands and take off my jacket, the clouds would cool it off again. Late summer weather in Colorado is interesting; sunny with a chance of snow is always a possibility.
The 'Gold Bond' handshake. Paul Rowney (Yeti) used to come by our tent and bring the 'Gold Bond Powder' and powder up before riding and offer some to my boss, Matt Eames. It became a tradition. After, both men would 'powder up' and high-five each other with the powder hand. Since Rowney has retired, his young team-mate Trent Lowe has continued the tradition, coming by our tent to 'freshen up' before heading out on a ride. Personally I have not tried the 'powdered up' feeling, but after seeing the high-fives and hearing the positive endorsements, I might have to ask Trent for a little 'Gold Bond' next time he stops in the tent. If you need more details about this method, please contact Mr. Lowe.
The head guy at Shimano that runs the entire Multi-Service division (both road and off-road) is in town this weekend. His name is Chad Roberts and he has a great sense of humor. Besides being the boss, Chad is a great BMX racer and very competitive MTNXer. Despite qualifying third today, Chad pinned it in the final and won the Expert MTNX. Congrats, chief!
The pro fireworks start tomorrow. Hopefully the weather will hold and I can get some more photos.
Until then, thanks for reading,
CD