Heavy rains plagued southern Ohio all week contributing to make round five one of the nastiest enduros in recent history.
Slippery mud and extremely tight, overgrown trails didn’t stop Mike Lafferty from scoring his third win of the season, in dominating fashion on his trusty KTM 450e/xc.
A 10-mile road ride to the first section would end up being the most fun riders enjoyed all day; when they turned into the woods for the start of the first section, they encountered what most riders described as jungle like conditions. The 13-mile section with virgin tight woods and established trails exacted a heavy toll on many riders, but Lafferty lead the way, with 9 points.
The next section was seven miles of flooded creeks and lowlands; Lafferty once again was the quickest scoring a 5 along with Yamaha rider Robbie Jenks.
Competitors spread out substantially in the next 12 miles of jungle and hills, the KTM ace maintaining his lead with a score of 10, followed by Hawkins, earning a 12 and Jenks with a 16.
Only 25 riders were still in the event for the final 28-mile loop of the tightest, muddiest jungle ever. Lafferty busted through the brush the quickest, padding his lead and being one of only twelve riders finishing with in their hour.
With the season at the halfway point, Lafferty holds an commanding lead over Hawkins and Jenks and may be on his way to title number six – tying Hawkins’ record.
