Friday was a good day for the team and me. Damon was able to talk to local Pro Ben Popper, and get him to Come on down to the Southside. We wanted to get his help in setting up our cross training course. We knew that we had a hidden jewel that was just sitting there waiting to be revealed, but I never expected to get what Ben set up for us. The only thing we don’t have is the sand, thank goodness. We now have it all. We have a nice run-up, pave, and long flat sections of grass. Then we get to the Hill, it’s not small nor is it to big, but it will get your attention. You start out twisting and turning your way up to the top, and then you come back down a third of the way to turn hard back to the top to only come the gut check. It’s a strait shot down a off cambered section that we saw Ben unclipping for the descent. I imagine there will be a lot of crashing at first, all over the hill. That’s ok, because if we can master the techniques to conquer Muggers Hill. (Ref to the unjust reputation of the Southside, and the fact that you will feel like you have been mugged after going down a few times for us mere mortals. Ben made it looked easy.) I this will cure my three crashes a race problem.
I know I have said this before, but the people in our sport are the best. Where else can you get a local pro’s to take time out of there day to help out other riders. I know we are no pros nor will we probably be. But most of the guys that have made it to upper level of our sport never forget where they started and always seam to give back what they can. That says a lot about them and our sport.
Showing newest posts with label team. Show older posts
Showing newest posts with label team. Show older posts
Sunday, August 9, 2009
Saturday, July 4, 2009
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
Beep, Beep Beep
So you want to work on your top end speed? Do you need to sharpen the legs to come around the last guy in a sprint? Watch how Gerolsteiner do it. Now if there were only some roads around here that were that smooth.
Saturday, June 6, 2009
Signs of a Good Ride
Overheard during our last team ride: "I was about 2 seconds away from puking". Hill repeats, short, hard, fast and all in the big ring. Ouch.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
It's Back
The stories have been circulating that the Chicago Time Trial Series would not be held in 2009. The truth of the matter is that the series is alive and kicking, albeit a few races shorter, but planning is now underway for the shortened series. The series was shortened for a few reasons including rider safety, but mostly due to calendar constraints and the difficulty in trying to squeeze 6 races into an already packed calendar.
Nothing is official yet, but it looks like there will be 3 if not 4 races this year hosted by some of the teams from last year. Yes as some of you have read Steve Hansen (North Branch) is stepping down from his role as Director of the series so that he can focus on his duties with the ICA in 2009. However, a strong group of individuals including this blogger as well as others from the team and racing community will be filling his large shoes and pressing on with the series. Check back soon for more info regarding dates and venues.
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Whose Idea Was It?
An hour and a half seemed like a good idea a few days ago when we set it up. In reality though 2 hours in 19 degree weather with wind and snow, probably not such a good idea. At least we suffered together, all 7 of us including a few new faces. I just hope we see the new guys after today's miserable ride, then again if they were out there with us then I guess they are just as goofy as we are.
The good news is though that my face is as smooth as a baby's bottom after slathering on Vaseline, now if someone could just tell me how to get it back off! So does this make us hardmen or just retarded? Please don't answer that.
The good news is though that my face is as smooth as a baby's bottom after slathering on Vaseline, now if someone could just tell me how to get it back off! So does this make us hardmen or just retarded? Please don't answer that.
Thursday, February 19, 2009
A Creed
As this team coalesces and becomes an even more cohesive group of individuals I have been thinking a lot about about what it means to share my life with these men, my brothers as it were. Even just a year ago, many of us were just becoming familiar with one another, still feeling each other out, trying to see what makes all of us tick. And yet a year later, this team has become more than that, it has become a greater than its individual members, it has taken on a life of its own far bigger and greater than any of us could have imagined.
Upon reflecting of the events of last season and of late, I have been thinking about what makes us so strong, about what has developed between our members that has helped us to become what we have become. Time and again I have witnessed devotion amongst the team, a devotion to something greater, something that we are seeking but don't necessarily speak aloud. We all seek to become better athletes, better teammates, better men. We do this not only for ourselves but also for each other whether we realize it or not. We push ourselves in our training as well as our racing so that we bring not only ourselves the recognition that we so desire, but also recognition for the team, a recognition that all of our hard work as individuals pays off for everyone involved in the organization. A strong showing at a race, or a well run event that the team is organizing shows the community that we work hard together and shoulder the burden as a team. Without this all for one spirit we are nothing more than an assembly of individuals with no real direction. But with the mindset such as ours we have shown that great things can be accomplished as long as our hearts and minds focus on the one true goal, teamwork.
Una fraternità nasce da un desiderio di riuscire-a brotherhood born from a desire to succeed
Upon reflecting of the events of last season and of late, I have been thinking about what makes us so strong, about what has developed between our members that has helped us to become what we have become. Time and again I have witnessed devotion amongst the team, a devotion to something greater, something that we are seeking but don't necessarily speak aloud. We all seek to become better athletes, better teammates, better men. We do this not only for ourselves but also for each other whether we realize it or not. We push ourselves in our training as well as our racing so that we bring not only ourselves the recognition that we so desire, but also recognition for the team, a recognition that all of our hard work as individuals pays off for everyone involved in the organization. A strong showing at a race, or a well run event that the team is organizing shows the community that we work hard together and shoulder the burden as a team. Without this all for one spirit we are nothing more than an assembly of individuals with no real direction. But with the mindset such as ours we have shown that great things can be accomplished as long as our hearts and minds focus on the one true goal, teamwork.
Una fraternità nasce da un desiderio di riuscire-a brotherhood born from a desire to succeed
Wednesday, January 28, 2009
Why?
So why do we ride our bikes? Why do we spend time away from our families? Why do we suffer when we should be having fun? We do it because we are chasing a dream. We do it because we know deep down that this is what the PRO's do. They suffer in silence just like we do. They put in the long lonely hours, just like we do. If going out and putting in the time and effort brings me a little bit closer to being PRO, then that is what I will do. If putting in all the hard work brings me just a small bit of glory, then it is all worth it.
If suffering on a long cold group ride together with my team helps me to better understand how each of us thinks, then I will do it. Teams are made of individuals that bring different things to the equation, and in doing so they make the team a better, stronger, more cohesive unit. Maybe someone is a talented bike handler that can passa long tips or techniques. Maybe someone is a great mechanic, or a tactician that understands the nature and nuances of the sport. Whatever it is every person on the team adds something special. Something that cannot be pinpointed, but would be missed if it were taken away. Perhaps the most important element that someone can add to a team is that of a motivator. And in a way we are all motivators of those around us. The rider becomes accountable to the team without words being spoken. None of us wants to let our teammates down in the crux of a race, and so we get on our trainers or rollers and put in the time and effort required.
If suffering on a long cold group ride together with my team helps me to better understand how each of us thinks, then I will do it. Teams are made of individuals that bring different things to the equation, and in doing so they make the team a better, stronger, more cohesive unit. Maybe someone is a talented bike handler that can passa long tips or techniques. Maybe someone is a great mechanic, or a tactician that understands the nature and nuances of the sport. Whatever it is every person on the team adds something special. Something that cannot be pinpointed, but would be missed if it were taken away. Perhaps the most important element that someone can add to a team is that of a motivator. And in a way we are all motivators of those around us. The rider becomes accountable to the team without words being spoken. None of us wants to let our teammates down in the crux of a race, and so we get on our trainers or rollers and put in the time and effort required.
Monday, December 8, 2008
What Goes Into A Season
I was curious what it takes for a small team like ours to wage a successful season of both road and 'cross racing. The results were staggering to say the least. All numbers are approximate but pretty close.
Number of Races entered: over 200
Entry Fees: $5600+
Top 20 Finishes: 68
Top 10 Finishes: 15
Podiums: 7
Miles Driven To Races: 16,604
Miles Training: 145,600
Bicycles Raced: 38
Wheelsets used: 53
Tires: 80
Inner Tubes: 100
Cassettes: 65
Chains Broken: 4
Short Sleeve Jerseys: 49
Long Sleeve Jerseys: 13
Shorts: 32
Gloves: 39
Hats: 28
Socks: 50
Helmets: 23
Energy Gel: 400
Energy Bar: 200
Energy Drink: 75 gallons
Water: 375 gallons
I am sure the list could go on and on and on. Once I started figuring out how much time and effort has gone into this little thing we call bike racing I was absolutely floored. For the thirteen of us to race, just in 2008 it cost nearly $70,000. Are you kidding me? And I am sure I missed something somewhere.
Our 2008 season would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, Beverly Bike and Ski and Vee Pak, Inc., SRAM, Cannondale and Spinergy.
More importantly though our season would not have been possible without the love and support from our biggest fans, our families. Without them allowing us the time to train and race none of what we accomplished in just a few short months would have been possible. While none of us will ever be champions in the true sense of the word, our families have given us the opportunity to chase our dreams. What we do on a regular basis may seem ridiculous to someone not familiar with cycling, but for those involved, especially the athlete that pushes to their breaking point day in and day out for even the smallest bit of glory, the sacrifice does not go unnoticed. From sacrificing on a personal level, to making ones family sacrifice their precious time, none of this is lost on the cyclist. We do battle with our bodies, with our bikes, with our heads and with our commitments in order to fulfill a dream. For every cyclist from every team, we appreciate what those around us do so that we can race our bikes. From the new Cat 5 down to the best Cat 1, we are all thankful for the support that is provided to us year in and year out.
To all those that look to this blog as a source of information or inspiration, or for any other reason, I thank you. This has been an incredible year, and while 2009 will bring new and exciting challenges, I know that BBVP will step up to meet those challenges head on and conquer them. From the rolling roads of Hillsboro, to Michigan Ave downtown, to the hills of St. Charles and the roads of Wisconsin we will give it our best, no matter the result. I know this to be true because I have shared hours upon hours with those men that I call my teammates, and I know that each one has the heart, and soul, and drive to not only fight for something that is important to him, but also important to the team. That is the essence of a team, the quest towards a common goal, the unrelenting drive forward to create something that is unique and exceptional. I am grateful to call these men my friends and I am grateful that we can achieve something together that makes the team stronger and greater than any of its individual components.
Number of Races entered: over 200
Entry Fees: $5600+
Top 20 Finishes: 68
Top 10 Finishes: 15
Podiums: 7
Miles Driven To Races: 16,604
Miles Training: 145,600
Bicycles Raced: 38
Wheelsets used: 53
Tires: 80
Inner Tubes: 100
Cassettes: 65
Chains Broken: 4
Short Sleeve Jerseys: 49
Long Sleeve Jerseys: 13
Shorts: 32
Gloves: 39
Hats: 28
Socks: 50
Helmets: 23
Energy Gel: 400
Energy Bar: 200
Energy Drink: 75 gallons
Water: 375 gallons
I am sure the list could go on and on and on. Once I started figuring out how much time and effort has gone into this little thing we call bike racing I was absolutely floored. For the thirteen of us to race, just in 2008 it cost nearly $70,000. Are you kidding me? And I am sure I missed something somewhere.
Our 2008 season would not have been possible without the generous support of our sponsors, Beverly Bike and Ski and Vee Pak, Inc., SRAM, Cannondale and Spinergy.
More importantly though our season would not have been possible without the love and support from our biggest fans, our families. Without them allowing us the time to train and race none of what we accomplished in just a few short months would have been possible. While none of us will ever be champions in the true sense of the word, our families have given us the opportunity to chase our dreams. What we do on a regular basis may seem ridiculous to someone not familiar with cycling, but for those involved, especially the athlete that pushes to their breaking point day in and day out for even the smallest bit of glory, the sacrifice does not go unnoticed. From sacrificing on a personal level, to making ones family sacrifice their precious time, none of this is lost on the cyclist. We do battle with our bodies, with our bikes, with our heads and with our commitments in order to fulfill a dream. For every cyclist from every team, we appreciate what those around us do so that we can race our bikes. From the new Cat 5 down to the best Cat 1, we are all thankful for the support that is provided to us year in and year out.
To all those that look to this blog as a source of information or inspiration, or for any other reason, I thank you. This has been an incredible year, and while 2009 will bring new and exciting challenges, I know that BBVP will step up to meet those challenges head on and conquer them. From the rolling roads of Hillsboro, to Michigan Ave downtown, to the hills of St. Charles and the roads of Wisconsin we will give it our best, no matter the result. I know this to be true because I have shared hours upon hours with those men that I call my teammates, and I know that each one has the heart, and soul, and drive to not only fight for something that is important to him, but also important to the team. That is the essence of a team, the quest towards a common goal, the unrelenting drive forward to create something that is unique and exceptional. I am grateful to call these men my friends and I am grateful that we can achieve something together that makes the team stronger and greater than any of its individual components.
And Then It Was Over...
As they say, parting is such sweet sorrow. Sunday saw the conclusion of the Chicago Cyclocross Cup Series and as usual the weather played a significant role in the racing, or the mayhem depending on how you chose to look at things.
I knew things were going to be rough after speaking to Tony who had to do the Masters 30+ due to familial obligations. I think he said treacherous at least a dozen times during our brief conversation while recounting his race to me. He mentioned that he went down 5 times during the 45 minutes, 3 of those occurring during the first lap alone. This wasn't going to be a walk in the park by any stretch. He mentioned deep snow, deep wood chips, a sand section and the nasty underpass. What he failed to mention was how everything seemed to be turning icy.
After my brief course inspection where I saw Scott from SRAM go down I knew things were going to be rough. And with a family cruise scheduled for next week, I wasn't in any position to take any unnecessary risks. I had resigned myself to more or less riding the course rather than racing it, and proceeded to spend my pre-race in my car staying warm. As we approached race time, Elvis, Patrick and myself found our way over to the start area. I managed to have a brain fart during the lining up process and found myself sitting in the third row with Patrick and Elvis close by. Maybe because I had taken the pressure off of myself and any expectations I had about finishing, but in the corral I did not feel any of the usual pre-race jitters. The final instructions were given and the countdown began.
Thats when things changed. The whistle was blown and we were off and I was racing, without even realizing it. About 200 yards in there was a massive pile up that had bodies in the air and bikes on the ground. As the leaders rode away from us I had no choice but to hoof it. So I got off the bike and started making up ground as best I could. I could hear Elvis behind me telling me to get back on, but I seemed to be passing people so I continued on foot until the under pass. I am assuming that Patrick was caught up in the initial scrum, as I was onlt able to catch glimpses of him when the course double backed on itself.
Elvis and I rode together for the rest of the race trading pulls and bringing back riders. I was starting to feel good and was taking the corners pretty well just as the race was starting to wind down. On the third lap we started to hit lapped traffic and therefore lost a bit of the impetus and caught fewer riders. Going into the last lap we surged in an effort to bring back just a few more places and also to keep from getting caught from behind. Things were working well and the minutes were counting down to the end of a succesful season when with about 5 corners to go my front wheel washed out and I went down for the first time all season. Elvis was able to capitalize and came past me without hesitation. I chased back but couldn't close the gap any further. As we neared the finish another rider capitalized on my fall to close the gap to me. We started a sprint, but I was a bit undergeared for it. I threw the bike at the line but was nipped for 27th. Elvis finished 25th and Patrick 33rd, never able to make up the ground he lost in the first pile up.
After finishing I quickly made my way to the car and some warm clothes so that I could take in the 4B race. I missed the start and Bob's first crash after he and Jorge had great starts. Turns out he also took out Jorge when his front wheel washed out. They both chased back and only lost a few places. Things didn't go to well after that though as Bob was brought down again just after the underpass by a fallen rider. Bob remounts and heads for the left hander in the wood chips when a rider goes down in front of him again and Bob has no choice but to ride over him, or at least try to. Back on the bike and he is left no choice but to chase Jorge and the rest of the field.
The remainder of the race was clean for both Bob and Jorge as they steadily made up lost ground. Bob was able to put down his TT power in the straights as Jorge made his way through lapped riders. Bob was able to claw his way back to 21st, while Jorge pushed through and finished 18th. Incredible considering both men have only completed 9 events previous to this.
So with this report, the 2008 season is now in the books. From our beginings til now we have come a long way this year. If this is any indication of things to come for 2009, I can hardly wait.
I knew things were going to be rough after speaking to Tony who had to do the Masters 30+ due to familial obligations. I think he said treacherous at least a dozen times during our brief conversation while recounting his race to me. He mentioned that he went down 5 times during the 45 minutes, 3 of those occurring during the first lap alone. This wasn't going to be a walk in the park by any stretch. He mentioned deep snow, deep wood chips, a sand section and the nasty underpass. What he failed to mention was how everything seemed to be turning icy.
After my brief course inspection where I saw Scott from SRAM go down I knew things were going to be rough. And with a family cruise scheduled for next week, I wasn't in any position to take any unnecessary risks. I had resigned myself to more or less riding the course rather than racing it, and proceeded to spend my pre-race in my car staying warm. As we approached race time, Elvis, Patrick and myself found our way over to the start area. I managed to have a brain fart during the lining up process and found myself sitting in the third row with Patrick and Elvis close by. Maybe because I had taken the pressure off of myself and any expectations I had about finishing, but in the corral I did not feel any of the usual pre-race jitters. The final instructions were given and the countdown began.
Thats when things changed. The whistle was blown and we were off and I was racing, without even realizing it. About 200 yards in there was a massive pile up that had bodies in the air and bikes on the ground. As the leaders rode away from us I had no choice but to hoof it. So I got off the bike and started making up ground as best I could. I could hear Elvis behind me telling me to get back on, but I seemed to be passing people so I continued on foot until the under pass. I am assuming that Patrick was caught up in the initial scrum, as I was onlt able to catch glimpses of him when the course double backed on itself.
Elvis and I rode together for the rest of the race trading pulls and bringing back riders. I was starting to feel good and was taking the corners pretty well just as the race was starting to wind down. On the third lap we started to hit lapped traffic and therefore lost a bit of the impetus and caught fewer riders. Going into the last lap we surged in an effort to bring back just a few more places and also to keep from getting caught from behind. Things were working well and the minutes were counting down to the end of a succesful season when with about 5 corners to go my front wheel washed out and I went down for the first time all season. Elvis was able to capitalize and came past me without hesitation. I chased back but couldn't close the gap any further. As we neared the finish another rider capitalized on my fall to close the gap to me. We started a sprint, but I was a bit undergeared for it. I threw the bike at the line but was nipped for 27th. Elvis finished 25th and Patrick 33rd, never able to make up the ground he lost in the first pile up.
After finishing I quickly made my way to the car and some warm clothes so that I could take in the 4B race. I missed the start and Bob's first crash after he and Jorge had great starts. Turns out he also took out Jorge when his front wheel washed out. They both chased back and only lost a few places. Things didn't go to well after that though as Bob was brought down again just after the underpass by a fallen rider. Bob remounts and heads for the left hander in the wood chips when a rider goes down in front of him again and Bob has no choice but to ride over him, or at least try to. Back on the bike and he is left no choice but to chase Jorge and the rest of the field.
The remainder of the race was clean for both Bob and Jorge as they steadily made up lost ground. Bob was able to put down his TT power in the straights as Jorge made his way through lapped riders. Bob was able to claw his way back to 21st, while Jorge pushed through and finished 18th. Incredible considering both men have only completed 9 events previous to this.
So with this report, the 2008 season is now in the books. From our beginings til now we have come a long way this year. If this is any indication of things to come for 2009, I can hardly wait.
Monday, November 24, 2008
You Have Been Warned
I have created individual pages for some, but not all of the riders yet on the team. A few of us are making use of the bandwidth to relay their own experiences both on and off the bike. If you care to find out what makes us tick, simply click on the name of the rider on the right hand side of the page. A disclaimer follows:
Neither the Beverly Bike-Vee Pak, Inc. Racing Team nor any of its riders, makes any warranty, expressed or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial products, process, or service by trade name, trademark manufacturer, or otherwise, does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the Beverly Bike-Vee Pak, Inc. Racing Team. The opinions of the authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the Beverly Bike-Vee Pak, Inc. Racing Team and shall not be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes.
Neither the Beverly Bike-Vee Pak, Inc. Racing Team nor any of its riders, makes any warranty, expressed or implied, or assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information, product, or process disclosed, or represents that its use would not infringe privately owned rights. Reference herein to any specific commercial products, process, or service by trade name, trademark manufacturer, or otherwise, does not necessarily constitute or imply its endorsement, recommendation, or favoring by the Beverly Bike-Vee Pak, Inc. Racing Team. The opinions of the authors expressed herein do not necessarily state or reflect those of the Beverly Bike-Vee Pak, Inc. Racing Team and shall not be used for advertising or product endorsement purposes.
Sunday, November 23, 2008
And Then There Was One
With the race today in Woodstock being the second to last in the Chicago Cyclocross Cup series, I became a little sad. Sad about the fact that this season will be over very soon. Sad about the fact that it will be very cold very soon. And sad about the fact that all of the great people that I have met this year, I won't see on a weekly basis.
Enough of the sob story, lets talk racin'! The course today was huge! It also offered a bit of everything, everything except sand. Personally I think my bike has seen enough sand this year, and my shifters will wholeheartedly agree. From the nice wide start/finish chute into the two climbs on "singletrack", that spit you out onto a false flat on the asphalt, then into a bumpy grass section with the token pinwheel thrown in. I knew the race was going to be fast, but I didn't think it was going to be that fast.
The off-camber sections were nice since they were actually rideable without any fear of serious personal bodily injury. Although the barriers seemed a tad bit too close together, maybe it was just me. I loved that fact that there were power sections followed by recovery sections, that led back into some more power sections. I just wish I had the power to put down today.
As for the team we all lined up in the second row today. When I say all, let me clarify, just Tony, Patrick and myself for the A's race. We all had a great start with me just getting ahead of Tony and Patrick initially. Tony came past me as we entered the woods the first time and took up position just a few riders ahead. I dug deep on the climb but hadn't realized there was a false flat. Ouch! He opened up a gap that wasn't to be closed today. Going into the pinwheel, Tony was just ahead and Patrick just behind, but slower traffic allowed the gap to grow even further. Through the end of lap one and Tony still led myself then Patrick.
Apparently Patrick had different plans though on the second lap. As we climber the second singletrack climb he came past me like a rocket. I worked for the next few minutes to bring him back, then settled into a rhythm, albeit a painful rhythm. The whole time Tony was dangling just ahead of us.
As we came around with one to go I put in a big acceleration in an effort to bridge up and Patrick and I got rid of some dead weight, or so I thought. Patrick passed me going through the barriers as I struggled with their placement again and I was left to chase back to his wheel. The ground down by the lake was getting a bit soggy at this point and my legs apparently were also. Patrick accelerated and I tried to go, to no avail. He slid out of my reach by about 20 feet or so as we crested the final climb out from the lake. At this point I figured I would have an easy finish as there was no one behind me. Well, there shouldn't have been anyone behind me, I thought we dropped everyone. Yeah, not so much. Someone slipped past me before the last off-camber section so that I finished in 23rd, Patrick in 21st, and Tony in 20th.
Jorge recieved yet another call up in the B's race which is incredible since he has only raced 'cross 8 times so far. His power and fluidity are something to behold. He just seems to float through the tough sections, often times with a smile! Off the start he was sitting in 10th, but he wouldn't be able to hold it for the remainder of the race. As the race progressed he slowly slipped back a few positions each lap.
The top ten finish that he wants so bad was not going to happen today. A bad knee and consecutive work weeks of 60-80 hours are taking the their toll on him. Hopefully the week of from racing and the holiday will afford him the time to repair his body and rest his mind. I'm not sure where he finished, but probably from 20-25th is a good guess.
I think we are all looking forward to a week of no racing and no driving. The rest and time with our families will be good. The race at Montrose can usually be pretty ugly with the weather conditions and the course turning into a muddy, sloppy mess. The week off should give everyone time to tend to both their bodies and their bikes. This has been a long season, longer than we have ever had locally for 'cross and rest week will surely be welcomed.
Enough of the sob story, lets talk racin'! The course today was huge! It also offered a bit of everything, everything except sand. Personally I think my bike has seen enough sand this year, and my shifters will wholeheartedly agree. From the nice wide start/finish chute into the two climbs on "singletrack", that spit you out onto a false flat on the asphalt, then into a bumpy grass section with the token pinwheel thrown in. I knew the race was going to be fast, but I didn't think it was going to be that fast.
The off-camber sections were nice since they were actually rideable without any fear of serious personal bodily injury. Although the barriers seemed a tad bit too close together, maybe it was just me. I loved that fact that there were power sections followed by recovery sections, that led back into some more power sections. I just wish I had the power to put down today.
As for the team we all lined up in the second row today. When I say all, let me clarify, just Tony, Patrick and myself for the A's race. We all had a great start with me just getting ahead of Tony and Patrick initially. Tony came past me as we entered the woods the first time and took up position just a few riders ahead. I dug deep on the climb but hadn't realized there was a false flat. Ouch! He opened up a gap that wasn't to be closed today. Going into the pinwheel, Tony was just ahead and Patrick just behind, but slower traffic allowed the gap to grow even further. Through the end of lap one and Tony still led myself then Patrick.
Apparently Patrick had different plans though on the second lap. As we climber the second singletrack climb he came past me like a rocket. I worked for the next few minutes to bring him back, then settled into a rhythm, albeit a painful rhythm. The whole time Tony was dangling just ahead of us.
As we came around with one to go I put in a big acceleration in an effort to bridge up and Patrick and I got rid of some dead weight, or so I thought. Patrick passed me going through the barriers as I struggled with their placement again and I was left to chase back to his wheel. The ground down by the lake was getting a bit soggy at this point and my legs apparently were also. Patrick accelerated and I tried to go, to no avail. He slid out of my reach by about 20 feet or so as we crested the final climb out from the lake. At this point I figured I would have an easy finish as there was no one behind me. Well, there shouldn't have been anyone behind me, I thought we dropped everyone. Yeah, not so much. Someone slipped past me before the last off-camber section so that I finished in 23rd, Patrick in 21st, and Tony in 20th.
Jorge recieved yet another call up in the B's race which is incredible since he has only raced 'cross 8 times so far. His power and fluidity are something to behold. He just seems to float through the tough sections, often times with a smile! Off the start he was sitting in 10th, but he wouldn't be able to hold it for the remainder of the race. As the race progressed he slowly slipped back a few positions each lap.
The top ten finish that he wants so bad was not going to happen today. A bad knee and consecutive work weeks of 60-80 hours are taking the their toll on him. Hopefully the week of from racing and the holiday will afford him the time to repair his body and rest his mind. I'm not sure where he finished, but probably from 20-25th is a good guess.
I think we are all looking forward to a week of no racing and no driving. The rest and time with our families will be good. The race at Montrose can usually be pretty ugly with the weather conditions and the course turning into a muddy, sloppy mess. The week off should give everyone time to tend to both their bodies and their bikes. This has been a long season, longer than we have ever had locally for 'cross and rest week will surely be welcomed.
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Sunday, November 9, 2008
Northbrook Delivers First Time Out
Being new on the calendar, you never quite know what you are going to get when you arrive at a new venue. The boys of Flatlandia surely did not disappoint with today's stop of the circus we like to call the Chicago Cyclocross Cup. This course offered up a little bit of everything, and in extra servings in case anyone was hungry for more.
I drive 294 maybe once a week and I swear I have never seen the hill that was thrown at us today. But I know every time I drive past it in the future I will never forget that it is there. Off the start we hit a technical section that kept you busy between braking, shifting and re-accelerating out of every corner. After the that, there was a brief power section before hitting the first climb of the lap. Stairs or run-ups have never been that difficult for me in the past, but because of the spacing of the stairs getting a good rhythm going proved difficult. After ascending the stairs you had the pleasure of riding the most challenging section we have ridden all year, three off-camber muddy, greasy turns where if you had too much speed, or hesitated just a bit you found yourself upside down. And believe me, more than a few people were trying to ride that section who had no business doing so, and some were making it look easy.
After that you were shot back into some off-camber, twisty technical stuff that tested the traction of your tires before heading back to the hill for more running, more off-camber insanity that prompted a bit of puckering if you know what I mean. Off the hill and onto the pavement for a bit of power and then right back to a short twisty section and a hill climb that wasn't so bad at all. Down the hill and towards "4 guys on a couch" with a serenade from a trumpeter and a bull horn, into a pinwheel, through some chicanes and then back towards the finish line. Definitely a sweet course, but a really difficult one at that. This race to me would be more a matter of staying upright when others hopefully couldn't, and minimizing any mistakes.
After the call ups, Tony, Elvis and myself wiggle into the 2nd row. Whistle! Go! I am a bit over geared for the start, but Tony and I are riding strong with Elvis just a few behind us. Up towards the hill and I decide to run the corners and save myself from crashing. I think Tony and Elvis both rode it cleanly. I wasn't losing any ground, nor was I gaining any though. Tony and I are still together heading toward the 2nd hill where he opens a gap on the decent that I cannot close for the rest of the race. Meanwhile, Elvis is closing down every chance he gets.
First time going through the tennis courts and I think Tony lost his chain, as I can see him running up ahead. Now is my chance to close it down, yeah right. He just has so much raw power, that I do not possess. Back towards the hill and Tony is still in sight, I run the section again, this time passing a few riders in the process. Into the technical section and now Elvis has joined me in pursuit of Tony. As we hit the pavement, I let Elvis come past to take his wheel and a breather. Through the pinwheel and past the "4 guys on a couch" and we have now been labeled the Olsen Twins by Al and crew.
Every time I see Jorge on the course, I shout encouragement and instructions and he listens. Everyone takes the downhill off-camber cleanly and then head out onto the backside and out of sight. On the second time up the hill Jorge cleans every corner, puts his back down and hammers, trying to close the gap in front while putting some time on those behind. At this point I was sure that Bob would run the corners, but not Bob, he comes into the first corner again looking good only to have his front wheel come out as he exited the bottom of the corner. He manages a quick remount with only losing two places, a testament to his drive for a top 15 finish.
The second time through wasn't so good for Sergio though. He cleans the first corner and is about to enter the 3rd when he is taken out from above. A crashing rider from turn 1, goes careening downhill just as Sergio is passing by. BAM! He goes down hard, but quickly remounts not losing any position in the process. Luck would not be with later as he slid out twice on the off-camber downhill, luckily no damage was done though. Joe meanwhile is slogging it out and passing riders in the process.
I drive 294 maybe once a week and I swear I have never seen the hill that was thrown at us today. But I know every time I drive past it in the future I will never forget that it is there. Off the start we hit a technical section that kept you busy between braking, shifting and re-accelerating out of every corner. After the that, there was a brief power section before hitting the first climb of the lap. Stairs or run-ups have never been that difficult for me in the past, but because of the spacing of the stairs getting a good rhythm going proved difficult. After ascending the stairs you had the pleasure of riding the most challenging section we have ridden all year, three off-camber muddy, greasy turns where if you had too much speed, or hesitated just a bit you found yourself upside down. And believe me, more than a few people were trying to ride that section who had no business doing so, and some were making it look easy.
After that you were shot back into some off-camber, twisty technical stuff that tested the traction of your tires before heading back to the hill for more running, more off-camber insanity that prompted a bit of puckering if you know what I mean. Off the hill and onto the pavement for a bit of power and then right back to a short twisty section and a hill climb that wasn't so bad at all. Down the hill and towards "4 guys on a couch" with a serenade from a trumpeter and a bull horn, into a pinwheel, through some chicanes and then back towards the finish line. Definitely a sweet course, but a really difficult one at that. This race to me would be more a matter of staying upright when others hopefully couldn't, and minimizing any mistakes.
After the call ups, Tony, Elvis and myself wiggle into the 2nd row. Whistle! Go! I am a bit over geared for the start, but Tony and I are riding strong with Elvis just a few behind us. Up towards the hill and I decide to run the corners and save myself from crashing. I think Tony and Elvis both rode it cleanly. I wasn't losing any ground, nor was I gaining any though. Tony and I are still together heading toward the 2nd hill where he opens a gap on the decent that I cannot close for the rest of the race. Meanwhile, Elvis is closing down every chance he gets.
First time going through the tennis courts and I think Tony lost his chain, as I can see him running up ahead. Now is my chance to close it down, yeah right. He just has so much raw power, that I do not possess. Back towards the hill and Tony is still in sight, I run the section again, this time passing a few riders in the process. Into the technical section and now Elvis has joined me in pursuit of Tony. As we hit the pavement, I let Elvis come past to take his wheel and a breather. Through the pinwheel and past the "4 guys on a couch" and we have now been labeled the Olsen Twins by Al and crew.
Elvis and I continue to trade pulls, and continue to reel back in Tony. At some point he drops his chain again, and we move that much closer to him. But again, his power is incredible and he hangs on just in front of us. Elvis makes a great jump as I get caught behind a lapped rider as we enter the finish chute, Tony 22nd, Elvis 23rd, me 24th.
Every time I see Jorge on the course, I shout encouragement and instructions and he listens. Everyone takes the downhill off-camber cleanly and then head out onto the backside and out of sight. On the second time up the hill Jorge cleans every corner, puts his back down and hammers, trying to close the gap in front while putting some time on those behind. At this point I was sure that Bob would run the corners, but not Bob, he comes into the first corner again looking good only to have his front wheel come out as he exited the bottom of the corner. He manages a quick remount with only losing two places, a testament to his drive for a top 15 finish.
The second time through wasn't so good for Sergio though. He cleans the first corner and is about to enter the 3rd when he is taken out from above. A crashing rider from turn 1, goes careening downhill just as Sergio is passing by. BAM! He goes down hard, but quickly remounts not losing any position in the process. Luck would not be with later as he slid out twice on the off-camber downhill, luckily no damage was done though. Joe meanwhile is slogging it out and passing riders in the process.
Bob is making up ground every lap on the back half of the course where he is able to put down the power. Bob is able to pass Sergio and make it stick after the Sergio slide out and he hangs on for 31st. Sergio finished just behind, but I'm not sure where exactly. Jorge rode an impressive race and again finished in the top twenty at 19th, racking up even more points in the overall. Joe finished just a bit behind Sergio, but again I'm not sure where.
This course was definitely the toughest we have had all year. I look forward to the flat course next week at Lansing and the dreaded "Pit of Despair". A little inside info between you and me, I was told there will be a corner introduced into the sandpit this year. This course suited all of us last year, so I know we will be placing high again this year. Bob should be able to realize his top 15, and Jorge could shoot for a top 10. Hopefully the weather will cooperate with us, and if it doesn't so be it, that's one of the things that makes cyclocross so special.
Sunday, November 2, 2008
Mud, Money and Beer
Today's race had it all! The course laid out for us today in St. Charles by the Chicago Cyclocross Cup was a doozy. Not necessarily very difficult, but there was no place to let your mind wander. From the winding climb just off of the start, to the off-camber section on the back of the course, to the twisting downhill and of course the best section on the course for me was the improvised beer garden. This section was an absolute blast to ride through everytime. Riders were shouted at, heckled, encouraged, some beer hand-ups were given out, bells were rung, pictures were taken, money was handed-up, you name it, it happened all within these 25 yards. Incredible fun!
As for our race, I managed a front row line-up for the second week in a row. Elvis and Tony filed in right behind me. Numbers were checked, tires were squeezed, and at the last minute I remembered to shift into the big ring. I wasn't going to get swarmed like I did at Bartlett, at least I was going to try my hardest not to. At the whistle I clip in instantly and begin putting the power down. Through the first few corners I am sitting 5-8 or so. Up the climb still with the leaders, hoping Tony and Elvis had as good a start as I did. Coming through the end of the first lap I had slipped back a few places as I am sure the heart rate was into the 200's. I was using the big ring for about 75% of each lap and that seemed like a good thing.
Everytime I race against Tony and I happen to get in front I always know it is just a matter of time before I get passed. There is always a little countdown going on in my head the longer he is behind me. Well the timer went off on the second lap as we entered the gravel after the beer garden. The match that I had burned trying to stay with the leaders was beginning to take its toll, and Tony capitalized on it. I grabbed his wheel, albeit briefly, as we worked toward the start/finish line. I was holding on for dear life when we came through and my heart sank a bit as the lap cards read 4. Typically our races have only been 4 laps long, so to see 4 to go was an odd experience. Granted we are still only racing for 30 minutes, but the mind sure has a way getting used to only 4 laps. Oh well, here we go.
At this point, with Tony just ahead at least I had a rabbit to catch. Up the hill and onto the back side of the course things were looking good until the off-camber section. Tony came in really hot and couldn't correct his line so rather than risking a crash, he did the next best thing. Crashed through the tape, twice, to the cheers of those watching shouting "if you can't go around, then just go through it"! I got caught behind him momementarily as we turned to go back up as Scott from the Pony Shop rode a perfect line through and blasted right past us. I tried to take his wheel, but he bombed the next little downhill and I couldn't latch on.
I believe Tony stayed just behind me for the remainder of the lap, again there goes the countdown timer in my head. At this point Dave from Flatlandia also caught up to us after his first lap shenanigins with the double barriers. Now it was game on, as I could hear Dave heckling me from behind. This is where things get a little fuzzy for me as far as events concerning Tony. At some point he flatted a front tire, grabbed Jorge's bike, crashed, and dropped a chain. I just can't remember how it all unfolded. Sorry Tony. Dave and I rode out the remainder of the race together as I tried to shed him at every opportunity. No such luck though, much like herpes, he kept coming back. Sorry Dave, I know you are reading this. Anyway, through the beer garden one last time with Dave hanging tight and back onto the final stretch of gravel. At this point Dave asks me how my sprint is, I reply awful and try to wind it up a bit, yeah didn't work, he jumped and I sat up. We traded places from last week him 19th, me 20th. Tony rolled in at 29th on Jorge's bike and Elvis at 30th with at least one dropped chain hurting his placings.
The B's race looked like it was a huge field. It always seems to be twice as large as ours, maybe it just strings out faster from the gun. Off the line Bob found his pedal and quickly jumped in with the leaders, with Jorge just a few behind. As they came through the beer garden though Bob got caught behind someone who drove him into the tape, Jorge came through clean and took over Bob's former position. Bob got things going again quickly and only lost a few places in the process. Sergio came through later in the field, a testament to his lining up in the rear. Dude, move up!
Through the next few laps, Jorge and Bob were both maintaining position, if not improving on it. Sergio was also making up places, but the field was so strung out, he wasn't making much headway. Sergio is so strong, yet for some reason he always lines up in the back and has to work to pass people that should be behind in him in the first place.
As they entered the last two laps Jorge was still within striking distance of a top ten finish, but he bobbled the tough entrance going into the beer garden. He lost those two important places, but quickly got back on to minimize the damage. Bob also had trouble through this time nearly stalling out and then catching the last troublesome stake on the left hand side. He to corrected and got into his big ring to finish strong. Sergio made the move of the day the last time through the beer garden. As he approached we shouted instructions to him for how to ride the section and he listened. Up and around the chicanes he went then into the throng of spectators shouting and cheering on every competitor, and just before he exited the melee' he grabbed the single out of Ben's hand
much to the delight of the crowd.
Jorge came oh so close to his first top ten in only his 5th 'cross race finishing 12th. Bob came in at 19th, again and Sergio couldn't remember his number so we will have to wait and see how he finished.
After the race as we were all relaying our personal races, Tony summed up 'cross racing. Its not about riding a perfect race, which for us will probably never happen, but about minimizing the number of mistakes we do make. If we can eliminate some of the mistakes we make each lap and capitalize on them instead, we can surely move up in the placings. Here is to next week then, and perhaps only making a few dozen mistakes!
As for our race, I managed a front row line-up for the second week in a row. Elvis and Tony filed in right behind me. Numbers were checked, tires were squeezed, and at the last minute I remembered to shift into the big ring. I wasn't going to get swarmed like I did at Bartlett, at least I was going to try my hardest not to. At the whistle I clip in instantly and begin putting the power down. Through the first few corners I am sitting 5-8 or so. Up the climb still with the leaders, hoping Tony and Elvis had as good a start as I did. Coming through the end of the first lap I had slipped back a few places as I am sure the heart rate was into the 200's. I was using the big ring for about 75% of each lap and that seemed like a good thing.
Everytime I race against Tony and I happen to get in front I always know it is just a matter of time before I get passed. There is always a little countdown going on in my head the longer he is behind me. Well the timer went off on the second lap as we entered the gravel after the beer garden. The match that I had burned trying to stay with the leaders was beginning to take its toll, and Tony capitalized on it. I grabbed his wheel, albeit briefly, as we worked toward the start/finish line. I was holding on for dear life when we came through and my heart sank a bit as the lap cards read 4. Typically our races have only been 4 laps long, so to see 4 to go was an odd experience. Granted we are still only racing for 30 minutes, but the mind sure has a way getting used to only 4 laps. Oh well, here we go.
At this point, with Tony just ahead at least I had a rabbit to catch. Up the hill and onto the back side of the course things were looking good until the off-camber section. Tony came in really hot and couldn't correct his line so rather than risking a crash, he did the next best thing. Crashed through the tape, twice, to the cheers of those watching shouting "if you can't go around, then just go through it"! I got caught behind him momementarily as we turned to go back up as Scott from the Pony Shop rode a perfect line through and blasted right past us. I tried to take his wheel, but he bombed the next little downhill and I couldn't latch on.
I believe Tony stayed just behind me for the remainder of the lap, again there goes the countdown timer in my head. At this point Dave from Flatlandia also caught up to us after his first lap shenanigins with the double barriers. Now it was game on, as I could hear Dave heckling me from behind. This is where things get a little fuzzy for me as far as events concerning Tony. At some point he flatted a front tire, grabbed Jorge's bike, crashed, and dropped a chain. I just can't remember how it all unfolded. Sorry Tony. Dave and I rode out the remainder of the race together as I tried to shed him at every opportunity. No such luck though, much like herpes, he kept coming back. Sorry Dave, I know you are reading this. Anyway, through the beer garden one last time with Dave hanging tight and back onto the final stretch of gravel. At this point Dave asks me how my sprint is, I reply awful and try to wind it up a bit, yeah didn't work, he jumped and I sat up. We traded places from last week him 19th, me 20th. Tony rolled in at 29th on Jorge's bike and Elvis at 30th with at least one dropped chain hurting his placings.
The B's race looked like it was a huge field. It always seems to be twice as large as ours, maybe it just strings out faster from the gun. Off the line Bob found his pedal and quickly jumped in with the leaders, with Jorge just a few behind. As they came through the beer garden though Bob got caught behind someone who drove him into the tape, Jorge came through clean and took over Bob's former position. Bob got things going again quickly and only lost a few places in the process. Sergio came through later in the field, a testament to his lining up in the rear. Dude, move up!
Through the next few laps, Jorge and Bob were both maintaining position, if not improving on it. Sergio was also making up places, but the field was so strung out, he wasn't making much headway. Sergio is so strong, yet for some reason he always lines up in the back and has to work to pass people that should be behind in him in the first place.
As they entered the last two laps Jorge was still within striking distance of a top ten finish, but he bobbled the tough entrance going into the beer garden. He lost those two important places, but quickly got back on to minimize the damage. Bob also had trouble through this time nearly stalling out and then catching the last troublesome stake on the left hand side. He to corrected and got into his big ring to finish strong. Sergio made the move of the day the last time through the beer garden. As he approached we shouted instructions to him for how to ride the section and he listened. Up and around the chicanes he went then into the throng of spectators shouting and cheering on every competitor, and just before he exited the melee' he grabbed the single out of Ben's hand
much to the delight of the crowd.
Jorge came oh so close to his first top ten in only his 5th 'cross race finishing 12th. Bob came in at 19th, again and Sergio couldn't remember his number so we will have to wait and see how he finished.
After the race as we were all relaying our personal races, Tony summed up 'cross racing. Its not about riding a perfect race, which for us will probably never happen, but about minimizing the number of mistakes we do make. If we can eliminate some of the mistakes we make each lap and capitalize on them instead, we can surely move up in the placings. Here is to next week then, and perhaps only making a few dozen mistakes!
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Monday, October 27, 2008
Results Official For Bartlett 'Cross
The officials wasted no time in making the results official for the 5th stop of the Chicago Cyclocross Cup in Bartlett. While the results are not yet available on the Series website, they are available on USAC.
The overall has also been updated here.
Mens 4A
Damon 19th
Tony 23rd
Elvis 28th
Patrick 30th
Mens 4B
Bob 19th
Jorge 20th
Joe 35th
Sergio 36th
The overall has also been updated here.
Mens 4A
Damon 19th
Tony 23rd
Elvis 28th
Patrick 30th
Mens 4B
Bob 19th
Jorge 20th
Joe 35th
Sergio 36th
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Brrrrrrr!!!!! in Bartlett
I guess this is the weather we always talk about racing in right? How it would be so cool and epic to be able to race in the wind and the rain and the mud. While we didn't exactly have rain, and the mud really wasn't that difficult, we sure has heck had the wind today. The wind coupled with the rapidly dropping temperatures made for an interesting pre- and post-race. .
Remember Montrose last year? Compared to how it felt today, Montrose was downright balmy. Maybe it was just the fact that it seemed like it was supposed to be warmer, but I can't remember shivering that much before a race. And the goosebumps were so big they almost hurt! Once we were finally off and racing the temperature was no longer a factor, but the wind never seemed to let up. The key to a successful race today was to be able to stay on someones wheel when it mattered. Getting blasted by a 50mph wind is no fun, especially when you are at 195 bpms and frothing at the mouth. At one point, after exiting the short wooded section I was nearly knocked over by a gust of wind. I also experienced a new phenomenon of the course tape trying to reach out and grab your handlebars at every opportunity. It kinda reminded me of being in a haunted house at the carnival where ghouls and goblins try and snatch at you in the dark. Enough complaining though, lets talk racing
After the call ups were complete, I quickly scooted to the front row on the outside hoping for a good start. Tony and the rest filed in behind me. At the whistle, the guy to my right has absolutely no ability to ride in a straight line or be able to clip in at the same time. I actually had to push him off of me for the first 50-75 feet, all the while I can hear Tony making his own opinions known. We quickly lose twenty places to this goofball and are left to try and make our way back up. Tony manages to pass in the 2nd or 3rd corner and Dave from Flatlandia goes with him. I quickly jump onto their little train heading for the first barrier. Up and over without any problems but slower traffic ahead of Dave and I on the first uphill caused us both to dismount. Of course I had to give him a hard time, and he apologized for it. Did he really think I was serious? Anyway, I spent the first lap chasing Tony and the leaders while not getting passed myself.
Onto the second lap and I'm still dangling behind Tony, but closing quickly. Into the wooded section and heading for the mud pit and I made my pass through the mud. I was sure Tony was going to come with me, but heading for the next corner I could hear him shouting encouragement at me, so I drilled again hoping to bridge to Brian from Mission Bay. I did close as we passed the Cuttin Cruiser and Al asking us if we liked gettin' dirty! I was sure Tony would catch us as we entered the asphalt, but I was honestly too afraid to look back. Typically when I race with Tony it is just a matter of time before he catches and drops me.
With two to go and no sign of Tony, my goal was to try and catch and pass the riders ahead. Out of every corner and obstacle I would be up out of the saddle sprinting and attacking the course. I was able to hold Tony off for the rest of the race and even managed to pull back a few riders. It seems my new mindset of attacking the course as often as possible is working. As soon as the race was over, Tony, Elvis and Patrick quickly got into some warm dry clothes so that we could cheer on the Jorge, Bob, Joe and Sergio in the B race
Much to our surprise Jorge received a call up for the top ten overall. Apparently some one had catted up since he was 11th in the results just a few days ago. At the start line then both Jorge and Bob had a great front row position with Joe and Sergio a few rows back. Off the start Jorge settled into a top ten position with Bob just trailing him. They both made it up and over the hill with no problems and rode strong for the rest of the first lap.
Coming out of the woods Jorge seemed to be in too small a gear and we were sure he was having difficulty shifting by his demeanor. But after a little encouragement he found the gear and the tempo to stay with the leaders. Bob too came out strong, and was having little problem holding his position. They were both listening to our instructions to them and were very attentive to the race around them.
During the second lap, Jorge was having a hard time matching the pace of the group he was in. Meanwhile Bob was having a perfect race, he was catching and passing riders and soon caught Jorge's wheel. They were together going into the woods, but Bob emerged first without Jorge. At this point Jorge was starting to slip off the pace but was still putting up a fight. The team did their best to shout and will them towards the finish and they did their best to not let us down.
.
As the last lap unfolded Bob was sitting probably top 15 or so with Jorge trailing just a few riders back. Bob dug deep and opened a gap as he entered onto the asphalt for the last time. However the attack didn't stick and he was caught again on the downhill stretch. Going into the last set of barriers Bob was with a group of three and working hard. He passed one rider on the climb out and tried to get a lead out from the other guy going into the wind. The tactic was a good choice, but his legs just couldn't respond after the hard effort of the day. Jorge clawed his way back and finished just one behind Bob for 19th and 20th.
All the while there was another race going on that might not have been apparent to any one else but those involved. Joe and Sergio have a mostly friendly rivalry going as to who can win the most races between the two of them. I think Joe might have had the advantage going into today, and therefore I was a bit surpirsed that Sergio was just sitting in. Joe was left to do almost all the work even on the windy sections of the course. Going into the last section of barriers Joe made and acceleration and tried to shake Sergio for good, but Sergio hung on, letting Joe take the "victory". Not sure, but I think Joe has taken a substantial lead in the "overall" with that one.
After the races we quickly dispersed to try and get warm as quickly as possible. Hopefully no one gets sick after this weather caught us off guard today.
As always, photos courtesy of Eric Nelson and they are available here.
Remember Montrose last year? Compared to how it felt today, Montrose was downright balmy. Maybe it was just the fact that it seemed like it was supposed to be warmer, but I can't remember shivering that much before a race. And the goosebumps were so big they almost hurt! Once we were finally off and racing the temperature was no longer a factor, but the wind never seemed to let up. The key to a successful race today was to be able to stay on someones wheel when it mattered. Getting blasted by a 50mph wind is no fun, especially when you are at 195 bpms and frothing at the mouth. At one point, after exiting the short wooded section I was nearly knocked over by a gust of wind. I also experienced a new phenomenon of the course tape trying to reach out and grab your handlebars at every opportunity. It kinda reminded me of being in a haunted house at the carnival where ghouls and goblins try and snatch at you in the dark. Enough complaining though, lets talk racing
After the call ups were complete, I quickly scooted to the front row on the outside hoping for a good start. Tony and the rest filed in behind me. At the whistle, the guy to my right has absolutely no ability to ride in a straight line or be able to clip in at the same time. I actually had to push him off of me for the first 50-75 feet, all the while I can hear Tony making his own opinions known. We quickly lose twenty places to this goofball and are left to try and make our way back up. Tony manages to pass in the 2nd or 3rd corner and Dave from Flatlandia goes with him. I quickly jump onto their little train heading for the first barrier. Up and over without any problems but slower traffic ahead of Dave and I on the first uphill caused us both to dismount. Of course I had to give him a hard time, and he apologized for it. Did he really think I was serious? Anyway, I spent the first lap chasing Tony and the leaders while not getting passed myself.
Onto the second lap and I'm still dangling behind Tony, but closing quickly. Into the wooded section and heading for the mud pit and I made my pass through the mud. I was sure Tony was going to come with me, but heading for the next corner I could hear him shouting encouragement at me, so I drilled again hoping to bridge to Brian from Mission Bay. I did close as we passed the Cuttin Cruiser and Al asking us if we liked gettin' dirty! I was sure Tony would catch us as we entered the asphalt, but I was honestly too afraid to look back. Typically when I race with Tony it is just a matter of time before he catches and drops me.
With two to go and no sign of Tony, my goal was to try and catch and pass the riders ahead. Out of every corner and obstacle I would be up out of the saddle sprinting and attacking the course. I was able to hold Tony off for the rest of the race and even managed to pull back a few riders. It seems my new mindset of attacking the course as often as possible is working. As soon as the race was over, Tony, Elvis and Patrick quickly got into some warm dry clothes so that we could cheer on the Jorge, Bob, Joe and Sergio in the B race
Much to our surprise Jorge received a call up for the top ten overall. Apparently some one had catted up since he was 11th in the results just a few days ago. At the start line then both Jorge and Bob had a great front row position with Joe and Sergio a few rows back. Off the start Jorge settled into a top ten position with Bob just trailing him. They both made it up and over the hill with no problems and rode strong for the rest of the first lap.
Coming out of the woods Jorge seemed to be in too small a gear and we were sure he was having difficulty shifting by his demeanor. But after a little encouragement he found the gear and the tempo to stay with the leaders. Bob too came out strong, and was having little problem holding his position. They were both listening to our instructions to them and were very attentive to the race around them.
During the second lap, Jorge was having a hard time matching the pace of the group he was in. Meanwhile Bob was having a perfect race, he was catching and passing riders and soon caught Jorge's wheel. They were together going into the woods, but Bob emerged first without Jorge. At this point Jorge was starting to slip off the pace but was still putting up a fight. The team did their best to shout and will them towards the finish and they did their best to not let us down.
.
As the last lap unfolded Bob was sitting probably top 15 or so with Jorge trailing just a few riders back. Bob dug deep and opened a gap as he entered onto the asphalt for the last time. However the attack didn't stick and he was caught again on the downhill stretch. Going into the last set of barriers Bob was with a group of three and working hard. He passed one rider on the climb out and tried to get a lead out from the other guy going into the wind. The tactic was a good choice, but his legs just couldn't respond after the hard effort of the day. Jorge clawed his way back and finished just one behind Bob for 19th and 20th.
All the while there was another race going on that might not have been apparent to any one else but those involved. Joe and Sergio have a mostly friendly rivalry going as to who can win the most races between the two of them. I think Joe might have had the advantage going into today, and therefore I was a bit surpirsed that Sergio was just sitting in. Joe was left to do almost all the work even on the windy sections of the course. Going into the last section of barriers Joe made and acceleration and tried to shake Sergio for good, but Sergio hung on, letting Joe take the "victory". Not sure, but I think Joe has taken a substantial lead in the "overall" with that one.
After the races we quickly dispersed to try and get warm as quickly as possible. Hopefully no one gets sick after this weather caught us off guard today.
As always, photos courtesy of Eric Nelson and they are available here.
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