After a summer hiatus, Round 10 of the AMSOIL Grand National Cross Country series took place this past weekend in western New York, drawing the largest rider attendance in GNCC racing history. Motorcycle Superstore/Bell helmeted riders were also back from the break and grabbed their fair share of podium space.

Maria Forsberg started out the day by not only taking first in the Women's class but also overalling the first race of the day, beating out 715 other riders. This was Maria's sixth class win on the season and she now sits one point behind the class leader with three races to go. "The racing has been great this year," claimed the Factory KTM pilot. "The points race is close and I have three rounds left to get the lead back and reclaim the title."
FMF/RPM/KTM rider Kacy Martinez had the lead the first half of the race then came in contact with a lapper that resulted in a crash, eventually finishing second. "It felt great to run up front and have an awesome battle with Maria!
But it was a major bummer when I collided with a lapper while I was out in front, otherwise it would have been a battle to the finish. I am really happy with my performance and conditioning. The next three rounds are going to be awesome!"
Andrew DeLong was one of those riders who truly appreciated the summer break from racing as he was still on the mend from a broken hand. The time off obviously helped as DeLong piloted his FAR Husqvarna to first overall in the XC2 class, capturing his fourth overall class win of the season, beating out GEICO Honda's Zach Osborne.
DeLong now stands third in points even after missing two rounds. "I have been working hard the whole break and it showed today, said DeLong. "Thanks to my team and sponsors for sticking with me! I had a lot of fun. All my hard work paid off today."
Rory Mead was close to putting the custom Motorcycle Superstore/Bell helmet on the podium, missing it by only one spot and finishing fourth in the XC1 class. Off the start, Mead found himself in a top ten position and immediately began to work his way up. By the second lap, Mead moved into third place and focused on keeping pace to take the final podium spot. With just two laps to go, Mead made a small mistake that set him back just one position, and ultimately in fourth place.

The next round of the GNCC series, the Car Mate Gusher, takes place at Foxburg, Pennsylvania on September 22. For more event and series information go online to www.gnccracing.com.