I don't mean to sound rather dramatic, but racing in Pueblo is an experience. Typically racing here means hot, dry conditions - I mean really hot and dry. Today was no different, and tomorrow will be even worse.
Now don't get me wrong, I have fond memories of riding my dirt bike here and watching Roger teach my kids how to ride here, but that was a really long time ago! I'm not saying I am old and can't handle the heat, but as we age there are certain liberties we get to claim. Mine are life, liberty, and the pursuit of air conditioning!
Pueblo is our State's reminder that we are actually a desert environment and desert settings can be extremely bad ass.. The grass that grows here has prickley things on it, there are large lizzards here, and if you are observant you might see a rattle snake or two. The further away you get from water the harsher the environment is, and there is a lot of harsh in Pueblo. Even the pretty little birds that hop around looking for bugs are bad ass - I swear that one hopped up to me, spun its head around, and threatened to pick my eyes out when I sleep tonight.
We've had 3 red flag stoppages today, and the day isn't over yet. The first crash required 2 ambulances. After the second crash large, buzzard-like birds could be seen circling over the track.
The corner worker by us is standing in a stand and the heat shimmers are so great that you can't see the ground below his feet. Imagine coming out of a right turn, hitting the throttle and accelerating quickly, only to see what you think is Jesus dressed in white floating in the air in front of you.
Racing in Pueblo is special, not because saying you raced here in the summer is considered a feat worthy of a badge of honor, but those who race here have an unique bond between them. They know of the harsh conditions, the sudden wind gusts, and the surprise sand storms blowing in - and that's just on the track!
I have hunted around Pueblo and in other places in Colorado, but the strangest creatures I have ever come across happened here outside Pueblo. I'm not saying that I've seen a Chupacabra or Bigfoot (ok in all honesty I did see a Chacabra near Pueblo), but I've seen more unusual incidents here than anywhere else I know.
The goal of Pueblo is survival. Dont get lost. Don't get hurt. Stay hydrated. Dont eat the peyote. After Day 1 the Geezer Gears have survived. We will set up our tents, have a frothy beverage, and rest up for another exciting adventure in the land of ....
Pueblo.
See ya' at the track!
Pops
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