Race 4 NHIS - Sept. 2002

Mary finished the season in fine style by winning her race by a wide margin. She got a good start and was first into turn one and out of reach of the field after one lap. She equaled her best lap time, 1:52, and did it on a damp race track. The bike was running in top form. We made a modification to the exhaust system and changed the fuel level in the float bowl after the first practice. These changes along with a new set of valve springs and a new exhaust valve seemed to work great. I don't think the bike has ever run better. Mary's racing form was excellent and still improving. You can go HERE and see a short movie of her going through turn 1, 1a and 2 at this race. She has managed to become a crowd favorite and usually has quite a few fans cheering her on. This movie was made by a friend watching the race.  Our Arch Rival on the fast Suzuki two stroke didn't race this time so Mary was out front by herself. Since the Suzuki rider already has a six point lead in the championship he did not have to race to still win the championship as our first place finish is only good for another 5 points. Still, first place last year and second place this year is not bad at all.  We've managed to run all year with little or no problems with the bike. Once again thanks to Richard at Ardjuna Racing for his advice and tuning expertise.

I finally managed to get in a full day of racing on the 175 Honda. After the installation of new carbs, new pistons, new ignition, different tires and a weight reduction of five pounds. The bike ran well the whole day, didn't make a lot of power but it ran predictably and well the whole day. I think I'm finally getting a handle on how to tune this bike. You can see a movie of me in turns 1, 1a and 2 right HERE.  I'm on the blue bike with the red helmet chasing the 125cc two stroke. Actually I think Mary goes through these turns faster on her 72cc bike. Sorry I didn't get any still frame pictures this time. It's hard to find the time to take pictures while you are trying to keep two bikes ready to race.

Mary victory at this race does give her the New Hampshire State Championship (Granite State Championship). Which means the race will be named after her next year, the "Branson Challenge Race".

We will most likely race one more time this year. It's a Non-Points race so it doesn't apply to the championship. I'll try to get some decent photos.... yea I know I always say that, but I'm really going to try this time.