The start of the race was crazy. They had all Cat 2 guys going at once. All but the single speed guys who went first. I started at the back at the starting line and after trying to miss a few close call wipe outs I stayed at the end of the pack once we got to the trail. That didn't help things. Its not to easy to pass at Swanson. Some guys will move but some you have to wait till you have the room to pass. As for the rest of the first lap it went ok. The one tricky section in the beginning I ended up running the bike up the climb. I did that for all three laps. Lap two was the only time I had a chance of riding it but ended up shifting into the wrong gear and off I went. Other than that the only other problems I had was the turns. I'm not sure what my deal was but I was using to much brake and I just felt all over the place. I felt great last month when I rode it but the first two laps I just couldn't get settled in.
Lap one and two my back was not feeling the best but for some reason lap 3 I felt great and actually felt like my best lap. I did a little better in the turns and climbing felt good. Well except for about mid way through the third lap, everytime I would get out of the saddle to climb my calves started to cramp up. So I tried my best to stay in the saddle for the rest of lap 3. Next time I'll try to drink more water or something.
In the end I realized I need to get to the front as best I can in the beginning and I need to push it a little harder in the first two laps. I felt like I didn't go as hard lap 1 and 2 worrying about lap 3. Will have to see this weekend at Platte.
Below I added last year's picture from Swanson and compared it to this year. I look like I actually belong on a bike now. Last year was gym shorts and running shoes. This year bibs and clipless shoes. I never thought I'd be wearing biker shorts but they do work better than gym shorts.
Swanson 08
Swanson 09Last night I was able to get a few laps in at Pioneers park with the road bike. I didn't have time to fix my MTB flat from the Sunday ride with Brandon at Wilderness so I just loaded the road bike up so I could ride after work. Yes I said FLAT again. That is #7. As long as my flats happen during training and not racing I'll be ok. But I really need to figure something else out for tires.
As for the rest of the week I would like to get in some good riding in today and tomorrow and I would also like to ride Platte before Saturday. I have a feeling that might not happen.
8 comments:
Nice job!
Hey - I know a guy who wants to do some practice laps at Platte tomorrow as well - he is from Lincoln. I can hook you two up if you'd be willing.
jon
I should know for sure about Platte tonight. I wouldn't mind riding with someone if I go anyways.
Nice... I thought you looked hot last year, but this year you are smokin'
Where did you get that picture? What happened to the yellow shoes?
Strap broke so I'm waiting for a new pair. I'm wearing Harp's old shoes from last year.
Tom Winfield has a new site. You have to pay now if you want a copy of the pictures. I had to buy one at least. If you sign up an account on his site you can have your own favorite list of pictures to keep track of.
http://www.photoreflect.com/pr3/store.aspx?p=220828
tubeless,
no flats for year now
RD I think thats going to be my next upgrade on my bike. I hate FLATS!
What tires do you have?
Jones ACX, but you might want to look at something more narrow for riding sports class. also make your own sealant instead of spending money on stans/juice
Post a Comment