The 2009 Tecate Hare Scrambles, was held Saturday, December 5 2009. A race that runs once every year, is organized by LOS ANCIANOS Motorcycle Club, based out of San Diego, CA. This was the clubs 49th anniversary and as always, provided a fun, technical, well organized race.
Many of us wait all year long for this race, as it is one of the best races held here in Baja, as well as in Mexico. Many of the top off-road pros get off of the couch in their off season to come and race the KTM Pro Challenge for a prize of $1000 and a very unique trophy. The winner gets on the list with many off-road legends that have won here in the past.
A two-hour morning race was held for International Sportsmen, Women and Iron-man, with a course of approximately 12 miles. At 1pm a two-lap race is held for Professionals and A/B riders. This course was around the 20-mile range and with lap times going for more than one hour.
With a bit of rain last week the course was in great shape. Minimum dust made it much easier for everyone. This course featured the most technical, fresh cut single track anywhere, with rocks, trees, water, sand and cactus!
After the dead engine start, the pro race started off, with Zip-Ty/Husqvarna's Nick Burson unable to start his bike. After he got going, the rest of the A/ B classes started. Twenty something super technical miles of racing going through the hills of Tecate. By the end of the first lap Kawasaki's Jamie Lanza was first to come by, with Nick Burson catching up to second. Bobby Garrison came by in third, with Ivan Ramirez (just off a fresh 4th place at the Baja 1000) came by in fourth. Then came Brent Harden and Colton Udall of Team JCR fighting for positions.
The unofficial results were Jamie Lanza taking the $1000 KTM Pro Challenge money, with Bobby Garrison second, Nick Burson third and Ivan Ramirez fourth.
Legend Larry Rosselar came in first of the A class riders.
For their 50th anniversary, Los Ancianos announced an Enduro Stage race somewhere in Mexico for next year. Make sure to mark that on your calendars!
No photos this time around, but here is a video clip with highlights from the race.