A new cast of characters and a new champion. It may have been another small turnout at Speed of Light this week, but a mix of fresh blood made for an exciting and close battle in the woods! 

For those who checked before heading east for the 6 pm start at the Split Rail Fence this Thursday, the hot seat was occupied by the Jack Skellington-like figure of Kyan Olshove. He somehow found time to squeeze the Speed of Light course into a three-hour-plus mountain bike ride and set the first sub-38 time of the year in the process. That gave Kyan top points for the week and an immediate vault up the standings. 

John O’Hearn and Sam Holmes, a package deal worthy of the “Shake’n’Bake” moniker, made their SOL returns this week and immediately threw a wrench in the works. Battling in that 40-41 minute bunch, O’Hearn broke clear for the top time of the evening, inching closer to 40 minutes with a 40:53, just ahead of a strong Jim Jackovatz and Holmes a short ways back. Chris Johnston was present and correct, finishing comfortably under 42 minutes and pocketing another serviceable haul of points. 

Wes Sovis and Chad Black tied on 42:08, just ahead of the Zelinski Brothers, and a strong ride from Bridgett Widrig and Val Hyrman, too. 

Jaden Drews suffered a costly flat that could put a dent in his chances for a top ten overall in the WorldTour, but there’s time to make up ground this summer and fall. 

For now, Cody Sovis sits 10 points clear in first, but Jim and Chris as separated by just two points in the fight for second, and just 10 points separate fourth through twelve, with two spots tied. 

The next Speed of Light will be June 17! 
Check out all the points and standings from the Speed of Light season here.