Pro XCT #2/US Cup Fontana

Todd Wells (Specialized Factory Racing) takes the early lead. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Max Plaxton (Specialized Factory Racing) seemed happy to bide his time in the lead group for a few laps. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Sam Schultz (Subaru-Trek) having another impressive race at Fontana. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Todd Wells (Specialized Factory Racing) descending over some slickrock. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Israeli champion and Fort Lewis College standout Rotem Ishay (Jamis). Photo by Dave McElwaine

Elite men’s start. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Geoff Kabush (Team Maxxis-Rocky Mountain) leading up the steepest climb on the third lap. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Chasers trying to bring back Bishop and Plaxton. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Sam Schultz (Subaru-Trek) leading the chasers up the climb on lap four. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Max Plaxton (Specialized) took the victory with a comfortable margin. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Amanda Sin and the elite women head out onto the course. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Heather Irmiger (Subaru-Trek) got off to a good start today. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Catharine Pendrel (Luna Pro Team) was in a league of her own on the climbs. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Lea Davison (Specialized Factory Racing) rode alone in third position for most of the race. Photo by Dave McElwaine

(Maxxis-Rocky Mountain) eyes the big descent. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Dusty Lebarr , wife Georgia Gould, and a friendly stray dog. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Krista Park (Incycle) taking the hole shot. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Chloe Forsman (BMC) descending into the valley. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Catharine Pendrel (Luna Pro Team) at the summit of the mountain. Photo by Dave McElwaine

Catharine Pendrel (Luna Pro Team) takes her first big win of the season. Photo by Dave McElwaine