This was the first season I really raced. The previous years I had done a few here and there. It actually all started on 9-11-01. I live in NJ just over the George Washington Bridge which connects NJ to NY. I was on Fort Lee Fire Dept Truck 2, we were dispatched on initial rescue efforts to the WTC. 343 FDNY firefighters died that day and I felt helpless. I decided to get a few firefighters together, form a team and race in there memory. We secured sponsorship from Azonic/O'Neal, Blur, Hayes, Kenda, Met-Rx and a local bikeshop. I contacted the race promotors and got permission to run plate 343 throughout the NJ State XC Championship Series. I almost got last place in my first race. Next few races I started doing better, even made the podium. Suddenly I was improving, everyone started to know us and Mountain Bike Action Magazine did an article on us. I finished in 3rd place overall in beginners men. Next season I am going to race but moving up to sport class. The mountain bike community total rocks the support and encouragement we received throughout the season was first rate. Major thanks to everyone that supported us. Firefighters have a brotherhood but I think mountain bikers also have one. Godspeed!