State of the Action: Noah Affolder has been the breakout star of the season. He had gone undefeated throughout the month of September, adding on the early weeks of October as well. He had garnered national attention the week prior, after his dominating performance against the clock at McQuaid, to strike down another course record. But Manhattan would be different. He'd very rarely be without competition to either side, and nobody would be willing to give an inch.

By the bridge, Affolder had already stretched out the race leaders. Only Kevin Murray of Charter, DE had chosen to go with the leader, the others in a tight pack behind. The move would prove costly for Murray, as the pack swallowed him on the downhills. As Affolder once again crossed the bridge, it was time for someone to challenge him, if they want a chance. Undefeated this year, Matt Grossman saw his opportunity, and began to pull away. The move ignited the pack behind, and the final shifts began to take hold.

However, on the finishing stretch, it was clear Affolder wouldn't be caught. He sprinted away from the competition, across the line first, snagging a victory much different than the one a week prior. Behind him, came a steady stream of State, Regional, and National powers. Jeremy Brown surged to second, and Matt Grossman held on for third. Noah Carey outlasted Ben Petrella, while several other regional powers came across. Affolder's win at Manhattan marks his first major win against a National Caliber field.

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  Boys Easterns - Noah Affolder