The El Molino mountain bike squad is in the midst of a great spring season on the club meet circuit, quickly establishing itself among the top Division 2 teams in Northern California.
Led by veteran coach Mike Warren and team manager Kate Aldridge, the Lions boast one of the most talented and experienced teams in the Redwood Empire and have proven it through the first three races.
“This is the largest and most experienced team I have had in our entire eight year history,” Warren said. “We have 18 kids actively participating.”
The Lions got out of the blocks quickly in the season opener in Monterey on Feb. 24, capturing first place in Division 2.
El Molino was missing several starters due to spring break in their next race at Granite Bay on March 16, logging a 12th place finish. The Lions were back on the medal podium in their last race in Monterey on March 30, capturing second place in their division.
The Lions feature a strong group of third- and fourth-year riders that includes seniors Neva Titus and Taj Krieger, the leading point getters in varsity races this season.
Leading a talented core of experienced JV riders are Spencer Babcock, Jack Grassl, Mael Chevorlet and Grant Feige. In addition, sophomore Blake Macheras has won two out of three races this year, finishing second in another. He is currently the series leader in a field of more than 60 sophomore boys that are competing.
Other competing racers for the Lions include Seth Friesen, Johnny Ruggeri, Geoff Towle, Chris Correa, Chris Hoener, Quinn Horak, Michael Janet, Ian Parsons, Zach Case, Joey Bull, Marius Smith, Nathan Schanz, Luke Herron, Eli Begley, Jack Conger and Lucas Drenth.
The Lions have two more races on the schedule before heading to Southern California for the State Championship meet later this month.
