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Cycle Dawgs win D1 second place trophy

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Ramona Cycle Dawgs raced strong at the National Interscholastic Cycling Association (NICA) SoCal High School League’s fourth mountain bike race at Vail Lake in Temecula. Even with gusting winds in the mountains of Vail Lake on April 24, they did not slow down.

The 17-rider team competed against 14 teams in Division 1 and won the second place team trophy. Overall, the Cycle Dawgs rank third place, which coaches said is truly amazing, as other teams have more than 30 riders.

The Cycle Dawgs’ competitive focus resulted in more than half of the team finishing 11th or better, and there were five podium wins. The race season has been exceptionally successful for female riders Gwendalyn Gibson, varsity girls first, and Stassa Cappos, sophomore girls second. Both are leaders in their categories and have the opportunity to win NICA SoCal League Finals.

The team’s training has paid off for many riders. Brayden Lessler won first place in the sophomore boys division, followed by Seth Levy, sophomore boys sixth (current leader); Karson Basore, sophomore boys eighth; and Josh Failla, sophomore boys 11th. Rounding out the Cycle Dawg winners are Jaron Cappos, varsity boys fourth, and Travis Wagner, junior varsity boys sixth.

“It was great to finally have a win under my belt, and I’m looking forward to the SoCal Finals in Tehachapi,” said Lessler.

It was a fun weekend of camping with the Cycle Dawgs family, pre-riding the race course, and cheering for teammates on race day.

“The competition was tough, but overall it was a successful race and I’m pleased with my placing,” said Jaron Cappos.

Head coach Robert Grace led the team on a pre-race course ride and assistant coach Dave Heiar supported rider Annika Green on race day. Assistant coach Rodney Linder volunteered as race course “sweep,” and assistant coach Ron Bacas led rider race warm-up and bike tuning.

“We are very grateful for the coaching support, as they always encourage our riders to do their best,” agreed parents.

The next race will be on Mother’s Day, Sunday, May 8, in Tehachapi.

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