Saturday, October 28, 2006

Dissin the Dog

Well, after a hard weeks work, I had no clue what ride I wanted to do today. I woke up at 8am not anting to ride to Zoka for coffee, or jump staright into a ride with Kenny and the Virgin. So, I had more coffee and waffles (frozen, no less,Stoked rides in the dark on sat morning!) and waited to do the classic "Erickson Ride" which I realised I first did 11 years ago!!

Well, while at logboom before we left, the Axley ride came by, and Pru Dog yelled some profanity, I think he also said I suck at Cyclo Cross.....well I already know that and it doesn't offend me at all. I almost bailed on the ride and went after the "Axies", but I didn't.

Well, after last weeks debacle of a Cyclo Cross race I said I was done, but no I'm going back out there again, I don't know why? Maybe I'll suddenly figure it out and be up there duking it out with Kenny et al......LOL!! That's not going to happen, this year anyway.....did I just say that?

This will be my last 'cross race, again ; -)

I'm going to visit my mother and 7 siblings on thursday, spending 4 1/2 days in Dublin. I will bring our Camera and take some bad photos!

That's all I have for now,

M

Sunday, October 15, 2006

Cyclo Cross Dud

I don't know how or why, but I decided I needed to do a cyclo cross race, and with support from Kenny Williams and Dean Sabol and the www.pedaldynamics.com crew, I saddled up on Deans fancy Moots Ti Cyclo Croos bike for the Masters A race at Kelley Creek.
It had been pouring rain all morning, but had eased off by the time our race started. The 1/2s went a minute in front of us. When Phil Miller said GO, we took off, well everyone else did, I was off the back when we passed the finish trailer after 100 yds!! I tried to up my pace and keep up with the tail enders, but they kept pulling away from me. I knew I was not going fast enough around the corners, but couldn't do it, the straight aways were ok, but I was very entertaining for everyone watching at the barriers!! I felt like my legs were not attached to my body.

I had to walk a couple of times when my right foot came out of my pedal at innapropriate times, but did manage to pass my 2007 teammate Brad Reed, oh yes he was stopped getting his saddle fixed ; -)
The 1/2 leader passed me after about 1 1/2 laps, then it seems like everyone else in the race passed me.
All in all it was a humbling experience, but I suppose I have to do a few more races to see if I can improve, don't think I can get worse, but you never know!

I was very impressed by the support of fellow racers and friends who insisted I come out again next week, despite my poor showing, either they are being very supportive or just like to see me
humiliated. I'd like to think it is genuine support, but I'm sure Pru Dog will tell me like it is and say I should quit because I suck!! So because of that and my competitive drive to at least be involved in the race........I'll be back