Well after doing the Midweek Mayhem crits every Tuesday night, I thought I should check this event out. Everyone I talked to said it was a lot of fun so I decided to see what it was all abotu. The event is a 3 day stage race that made up of a hill climb time trial, criterium and road race.
At first I was only going to do the criterium but I thought...if I'm going to suffer, I may as well make a weekend out of it. It seems I'm starting to become a roadie!
I decided not to do any races in July and train up for this event. This will be my first road race event and will be one of the few races my friend and family will be able to come out and watch.
The hill climb will be a time trial to the top of COP.
The criterium course will be a pretty technical 1km course around Bow Cycle.
The road race will be a 5.3km circuit race through the roads of the Bearspaw Golf Club.
I'm really looking forward to the criterium. While these races are always really sketchy, I love the rush of going 40-50km/h on a bike. I also find these races so exciting to watch...so much going on in every race and it's almost as if the racers are putting on a show for the spectators.
The road race course seems really fun. While it has a big hill in it...it's pretty technical and has something for everyone. To me it seems like a longer, slightly slower criterium course. I have pre-ridden my laps for the course a couple times and I personally like the format...though I'm sure some people disagree.
Friday, July 31, 2009
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Suffer Springs Summer Solstice
Goal for the race: Finish the race in under an hour
Seconday goal: Don't crash or bail
You really have to love a race that starts with the word "suffer"....at least they get you to sign a waiver that pretty much says if anything happens, it's your own fault.
This race was held on the Sulpher Springs trail in Bragg Creek. In all my time mountain biking, I have never once hiked or biked this trails. My first time ever on the trail was during the pre-ride with the 'Goats in which we also did a run on the new Pneuma trail. Saturday during the course setup was the first time I had ridden the entire trail.
I wasn't as nervous than in previous races so when the whistle blew we all went out pretty hard. My plan for the race was to pick off people during the climbs. I got myself into good steady pace but could already feel my quads starting to burn a little on the first climb. I continued picking a few guys off but overall I was by myself. I could see my teammate, Ken, up ahead and was trying to pick up my pace so that I could ride with him as he seemed to going pretty good.
I kept him within eyesight until the second big hill. I tried to crank in a harder gear then usual but when I tried to shift into an easier gear, my chain popped off. All I could think about was "not this $#*! again". Luckily it didn't get stuck so after dismounted and doing a revolution on the pedals the chain came back on. I ran a little bit up the hill to a flat section where I started up again. The descent was really sketchy with loose gravel everywhere so I was riding the brakes pretty hard down the steep switchbacks. One really long climb still remained but as I approached it I could not see a single rider on it. There was one section that was extremely loose so I had to dismount and run a little as I couldn't any traction but for the most part I rode it all the way to the top.
The second major descent was a lot more technical and faster but all around tons of fun. I was finally getting used to my new bike and started taking straight lines down. I was also letting go of my brakes a little more then usual and just trusting my bike to carry me through the descents.
The last part of the race was a flat and grassy single track to the finish so I put my bike into the big ring, stood up and just hammered all the way to the end.
I finished the race with no bails, cuts or bruises and a fully working bike so I had met my secondary goal. I also checked my computer and I had finished the race in 55 minutes so I had completed both of my goals for the race. I was really happy...I didn't care about my results. I had gone out, raced my race and had a lot of fun in the process.
Result: 10/25
Good job to all my teammates that competed in the race. We had 4 people on the podium that day which was awesome.
Seconday goal: Don't crash or bail
You really have to love a race that starts with the word "suffer"....at least they get you to sign a waiver that pretty much says if anything happens, it's your own fault.
This race was held on the Sulpher Springs trail in Bragg Creek. In all my time mountain biking, I have never once hiked or biked this trails. My first time ever on the trail was during the pre-ride with the 'Goats in which we also did a run on the new Pneuma trail. Saturday during the course setup was the first time I had ridden the entire trail.
I wasn't as nervous than in previous races so when the whistle blew we all went out pretty hard. My plan for the race was to pick off people during the climbs. I got myself into good steady pace but could already feel my quads starting to burn a little on the first climb. I continued picking a few guys off but overall I was by myself. I could see my teammate, Ken, up ahead and was trying to pick up my pace so that I could ride with him as he seemed to going pretty good.
I kept him within eyesight until the second big hill. I tried to crank in a harder gear then usual but when I tried to shift into an easier gear, my chain popped off. All I could think about was "not this $#*! again". Luckily it didn't get stuck so after dismounted and doing a revolution on the pedals the chain came back on. I ran a little bit up the hill to a flat section where I started up again. The descent was really sketchy with loose gravel everywhere so I was riding the brakes pretty hard down the steep switchbacks. One really long climb still remained but as I approached it I could not see a single rider on it. There was one section that was extremely loose so I had to dismount and run a little as I couldn't any traction but for the most part I rode it all the way to the top.
The second major descent was a lot more technical and faster but all around tons of fun. I was finally getting used to my new bike and started taking straight lines down. I was also letting go of my brakes a little more then usual and just trusting my bike to carry me through the descents.
The last part of the race was a flat and grassy single track to the finish so I put my bike into the big ring, stood up and just hammered all the way to the end.
I finished the race with no bails, cuts or bruises and a fully working bike so I had met my secondary goal. I also checked my computer and I had finished the race in 55 minutes so I had completed both of my goals for the race. I was really happy...I didn't care about my results. I had gone out, raced my race and had a lot of fun in the process.
Result: 10/25
Good job to all my teammates that competed in the race. We had 4 people on the podium that day which was awesome.
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Edmonton Canada Cup XC
Goal: Finish in the top third
This race was kind of a last minute one for me. I wanted to do it but after checking the technical guide I wasn't sure if I'd be able to make it up on time for sign-on. Because it was part of the national circuit everyone had to sign on the day before which meant we had to get to Edmonton before 7pm in order to register and have time to pre-ride the course.
There were 2 major factors precluding making this race:
1. My new frame (Norco Faze 1) has just arrived on Tuesday and the bike shop had scheduled it to be done on Friday...which could be anytime Friday.
2. I had some overtime still to be used up but my co-worker was supposed to be away the whole day on a training course so I couldn't take the day off which wouldn't have left me enough time.
After a few phonecalls to Bow and talking with my co-worker I was able to get my bike done Thursday night and leave work at noon on Friday. The next day I left work early and after a few unexpected slowdowns on the Deerfoot and the highway near Crossfield we were finally on our way to Edmonton.
After picking up our race plates and asking around a bit we finally got some decent directions to the park where the race was being held to do a pre-ride. The new bike felt really good although this was technically my first ride on it so I was still having trouble picking lines as I wasn't used to a full-suspension race bike.
Race Day:
My legs felt pretty good today and I was confident that I was able to ride the course with only a few sections that worried me...namely a sand trap and a super sketchy gravel switchback descent.
The whistle went off and I knew I could power up the first ascent. The problem with climbing in MTB races is not always your own technical ability...but sometimes the people who are in front of you. There were a lot of novices...69...which is the largest group we've had all year. During the first climb there guys already dismounting and running up...not good. I could also notice my rear derailleur was being quite stubborn upshifting and it was ghost shifting during the climbs. I knew right away my cables had stretched after the pre-ride yesterday. The first descent I had bailed on during the pre-ride I managed to clean (and somehow steer around two other guys who had bailed).
After finishing up the first part I cranked through the straight away..passing a couple guys before entering the flowy single track section. The sand pit came and the path was blocked so I had to dismount and run through. Next section was the rooty technical power climbs...now my derailleur was giving me a ton of problems...my chain was all over place making all the power climbs guesswork. During one straight section of the race I tried to pass couple guys on the outside of the straightaway and my handlebar caught on a stake that was a bit too high...first crash...not good.
The final part of each lap was a pretty long shale pathway back the lap area so I used this opportunity to crank and adjust my rear shifting cable.
Second lap went better in the shifting department. I ran this lap a little faster and a little cleaner. At the top of the first climb I saw one of my teammates with his bike upside down...I did a quick check and he said he flatted out but he was OK. I managed to pass a few guys on this lap and tried to plow through the sand trap but my chain ended up falling off again so I was once again being passed by the guys I had just passed trying to get my chain back on. I continued on and couldn't believe my luck. I had another bail on a descent when my front tire slipped out unexpectedly. I just wanted to put all these things behind me now.
Third lap went pretty good again. I managed to close a gap with another rider so I grabbed his wheel and followed his lines through the technical sections. On the straight I managed to overtake him and cruise through the flowy single track section.
On the rooty technical I thought I had finally seen a good line to take...I tried to power up the climb this time and this time my chain came off and got stuck in between my cranks and my frame. I spent a good 2-3 minutes trying to yank the chain out and at one point I didn't think I was going to be able to get it out without breaking the chain all the while about 5-6 riders I had passed managed to pass me again. I finally managed to get it free and had to run a good portion of the section because I was afraid of having the chain snap during the power climbs and there wasn't really a flat part to get started again.
After finally getting going again...I managed to pass just a couple riders and sprinted for the finish line. There was another rider I had met at the Bacon Race who had finished a couple spots behind me so as I rode past him I yelled to him to just giver with me...I wanted a close finish.
I passed the finish line and was sure that I had come close to the bottom. I had so many problems during the race and three crashes. It was one of my worst races. I had lost a lot of confidence in my technical ability and my technical climbing. I knew there might be issues riding a new bike for the first time during a race...but I didn't think it would be this bad. I was pretty disappointed because I knew I had lost 6-8 places while I was trying to pull my chain free and get it back on my gears again. I wasn't that tired after the race so I had enough to keep my placing if so many mechanicals problems hadn't arose.
Result: 28/69
Better then I had expected. A lot better. If I didn't have all those problems during the race I'm sure I could have placed 20th or better...but that's mountain biking for you. Every race is a test of your training and a little bit of luck.
I really have to work on my starting sprint and my technical skills. Probably just have to spend more time with my new bike and get used to the lines I can take now.
At least one of my teammates took third which was awesome to see...this is his second year racing and that was his first podium. My other teammate managed to take 11th despite having to fix a flat during the race.
This race was kind of a last minute one for me. I wanted to do it but after checking the technical guide I wasn't sure if I'd be able to make it up on time for sign-on. Because it was part of the national circuit everyone had to sign on the day before which meant we had to get to Edmonton before 7pm in order to register and have time to pre-ride the course.
There were 2 major factors precluding making this race:
1. My new frame (Norco Faze 1) has just arrived on Tuesday and the bike shop had scheduled it to be done on Friday...which could be anytime Friday.
2. I had some overtime still to be used up but my co-worker was supposed to be away the whole day on a training course so I couldn't take the day off which wouldn't have left me enough time.
After a few phonecalls to Bow and talking with my co-worker I was able to get my bike done Thursday night and leave work at noon on Friday. The next day I left work early and after a few unexpected slowdowns on the Deerfoot and the highway near Crossfield we were finally on our way to Edmonton.
After picking up our race plates and asking around a bit we finally got some decent directions to the park where the race was being held to do a pre-ride. The new bike felt really good although this was technically my first ride on it so I was still having trouble picking lines as I wasn't used to a full-suspension race bike.
Race Day:
My legs felt pretty good today and I was confident that I was able to ride the course with only a few sections that worried me...namely a sand trap and a super sketchy gravel switchback descent.
The whistle went off and I knew I could power up the first ascent. The problem with climbing in MTB races is not always your own technical ability...but sometimes the people who are in front of you. There were a lot of novices...69...which is the largest group we've had all year. During the first climb there guys already dismounting and running up...not good. I could also notice my rear derailleur was being quite stubborn upshifting and it was ghost shifting during the climbs. I knew right away my cables had stretched after the pre-ride yesterday. The first descent I had bailed on during the pre-ride I managed to clean (and somehow steer around two other guys who had bailed).
After finishing up the first part I cranked through the straight away..passing a couple guys before entering the flowy single track section. The sand pit came and the path was blocked so I had to dismount and run through. Next section was the rooty technical power climbs...now my derailleur was giving me a ton of problems...my chain was all over place making all the power climbs guesswork. During one straight section of the race I tried to pass couple guys on the outside of the straightaway and my handlebar caught on a stake that was a bit too high...first crash...not good.
The final part of each lap was a pretty long shale pathway back the lap area so I used this opportunity to crank and adjust my rear shifting cable.
Second lap went better in the shifting department. I ran this lap a little faster and a little cleaner. At the top of the first climb I saw one of my teammates with his bike upside down...I did a quick check and he said he flatted out but he was OK. I managed to pass a few guys on this lap and tried to plow through the sand trap but my chain ended up falling off again so I was once again being passed by the guys I had just passed trying to get my chain back on. I continued on and couldn't believe my luck. I had another bail on a descent when my front tire slipped out unexpectedly. I just wanted to put all these things behind me now.
Third lap went pretty good again. I managed to close a gap with another rider so I grabbed his wheel and followed his lines through the technical sections. On the straight I managed to overtake him and cruise through the flowy single track section.
On the rooty technical I thought I had finally seen a good line to take...I tried to power up the climb this time and this time my chain came off and got stuck in between my cranks and my frame. I spent a good 2-3 minutes trying to yank the chain out and at one point I didn't think I was going to be able to get it out without breaking the chain all the while about 5-6 riders I had passed managed to pass me again. I finally managed to get it free and had to run a good portion of the section because I was afraid of having the chain snap during the power climbs and there wasn't really a flat part to get started again.
After finally getting going again...I managed to pass just a couple riders and sprinted for the finish line. There was another rider I had met at the Bacon Race who had finished a couple spots behind me so as I rode past him I yelled to him to just giver with me...I wanted a close finish.
I passed the finish line and was sure that I had come close to the bottom. I had so many problems during the race and three crashes. It was one of my worst races. I had lost a lot of confidence in my technical ability and my technical climbing. I knew there might be issues riding a new bike for the first time during a race...but I didn't think it would be this bad. I was pretty disappointed because I knew I had lost 6-8 places while I was trying to pull my chain free and get it back on my gears again. I wasn't that tired after the race so I had enough to keep my placing if so many mechanicals problems hadn't arose.
Result: 28/69
Better then I had expected. A lot better. If I didn't have all those problems during the race I'm sure I could have placed 20th or better...but that's mountain biking for you. Every race is a test of your training and a little bit of luck.
I really have to work on my starting sprint and my technical skills. Probably just have to spend more time with my new bike and get used to the lines I can take now.
At least one of my teammates took third which was awesome to see...this is his second year racing and that was his first podium. My other teammate managed to take 11th despite having to fix a flat during the race.
Monday, June 1, 2009
Giver-8-er Enduro
Goal for this race: Finish at least 5 laps
This was my very first enduro event. I wasn't sure how I'd feel about biking for so long but I can't really say I don't like Enduros without first giving them a chance.
For the race I decided to look for a partner so that we could switch off every couple laps or so. This way we could each have a break and get something to eat. Someone e-mailed me that they were looking to rde with a two man team so I rode the event with Peter.
My partner was going to be a little late so we decided I would start off and ride the first 2 laps and by the time I was finished my second lap he would be ready to go.
The first lap didn't go so well for me...there were so many riders in front and behind you so it was really hard to focus with people bearing down on you on the tight single track. I had a couple minor slip-ups and one bail when my front tire slipped out on a decent. I had pre-ridden the course 5 times prior so I wasn't sure why I was making so many mistakes on the course.
I remember coming up on a part that was a really steep and sketchy gravel descent. I knew before the race that I would probably just tripod my way down as it wasn't worth the risk of injury to try and bike down. A rider asked if he could pas and I said sure...but he hadn't pre-ridden the course and shot down the hill at full blast...needless to say...the dust cloud a the bottom cleared and he had bailed pretty hard. I checked to make sure he was OK and continued on.
My second lap was a lot better...I grabbed the wheel of a teammate and just followed her the entire course. She paced the lap really well so I had an easier time just following her lines. When I got to the timing chute, my partner was ready and waiting. Perfect timing.
My partner ran the laps pretty fast and we were doing the laps pretty good.
I was ready to start my third lap and felt pretty confident as my second lap went well.
During my third lap I was taking a new section of single track much faster then usual and accidently took the wrong line...my front tire caught on something and ejected me from my bike. I remember getting up to see my bike in the creek...after I fished it out the cables were stretched and twisted. I untangled it and figured it was OK. I kept riding and then on a uphill I tried to shift and my derailleur went right into my spokes...not good...my derailleur was bent.
I bent in back into place and then continued on for a bit...then I found out I couldn't shift my front derailleur either. I could barely pedal the bike and forgot my chain pins back at the team pits so I couldn't single speed my bike. I ended up having to walk my bike back to the start/finish area and burn the lap as I had cut the course to get back.
I felt horrible...I've crashed before but never that bad...how was I going to finish the race?
I felt bad that we would end up last because I took a lap too hot. I checked with the organizers and it turned out that we could change bikes...so I figured I would be able to drive home...get my other bike and be ready to race by the time my partner finished 2 laps. I drove like a madman home, loaded my other bike and drove back to COP. By the time I had finished getting ready...my partner rolled in and I took off.
Another problem arose right away...I don't have a bottle cage on my Prophet and I didn't think of grabbing my CamelBak. So I had to run the lap without any water at all. This was brutal, it was super hot outside and all I could think about was water each lap.
I finished my 3rd lap problem free came into the pit and my partner had just eaten so he checked to see if I was good to run another lap. I had the energy to, so I drank a whole bottle of water, half a bottle of Gatorade and took off for another lap. 4th lap I ran fine as well...must have been the full-suspension setup.
My partner ran another lap and then I ran the last one of the day....making it 5 laps. I had met my goal...although I think I would have been able to do more had I not crashed. I figure that my crash ended up costing us 2 or 3 laps. In total we did 10 laps. In retrospect I'm glad it was my bike that got smashedup and not me...or else I wouldn't have been able to help finish the race at all. We didn't come in last but I personally feel we probably could have done more laps which would have moved us up a bunch of spots.
Result: 16/18
Well there's always next year. I did end up getting a new frame and wheelset after this race...which is essentially a new bike. I didn't want to buy anymore bikes this year...but I'm really starting to enjoy racing...so I think I should have a proper racing bike that doesn't mess up my back.
This was my very first enduro event. I wasn't sure how I'd feel about biking for so long but I can't really say I don't like Enduros without first giving them a chance.
For the race I decided to look for a partner so that we could switch off every couple laps or so. This way we could each have a break and get something to eat. Someone e-mailed me that they were looking to rde with a two man team so I rode the event with Peter.
My partner was going to be a little late so we decided I would start off and ride the first 2 laps and by the time I was finished my second lap he would be ready to go.
The first lap didn't go so well for me...there were so many riders in front and behind you so it was really hard to focus with people bearing down on you on the tight single track. I had a couple minor slip-ups and one bail when my front tire slipped out on a decent. I had pre-ridden the course 5 times prior so I wasn't sure why I was making so many mistakes on the course.
I remember coming up on a part that was a really steep and sketchy gravel descent. I knew before the race that I would probably just tripod my way down as it wasn't worth the risk of injury to try and bike down. A rider asked if he could pas and I said sure...but he hadn't pre-ridden the course and shot down the hill at full blast...needless to say...the dust cloud a the bottom cleared and he had bailed pretty hard. I checked to make sure he was OK and continued on.
My second lap was a lot better...I grabbed the wheel of a teammate and just followed her the entire course. She paced the lap really well so I had an easier time just following her lines. When I got to the timing chute, my partner was ready and waiting. Perfect timing.
My partner ran the laps pretty fast and we were doing the laps pretty good.
I was ready to start my third lap and felt pretty confident as my second lap went well.
During my third lap I was taking a new section of single track much faster then usual and accidently took the wrong line...my front tire caught on something and ejected me from my bike. I remember getting up to see my bike in the creek...after I fished it out the cables were stretched and twisted. I untangled it and figured it was OK. I kept riding and then on a uphill I tried to shift and my derailleur went right into my spokes...not good...my derailleur was bent.
I bent in back into place and then continued on for a bit...then I found out I couldn't shift my front derailleur either. I could barely pedal the bike and forgot my chain pins back at the team pits so I couldn't single speed my bike. I ended up having to walk my bike back to the start/finish area and burn the lap as I had cut the course to get back.
I felt horrible...I've crashed before but never that bad...how was I going to finish the race?
I felt bad that we would end up last because I took a lap too hot. I checked with the organizers and it turned out that we could change bikes...so I figured I would be able to drive home...get my other bike and be ready to race by the time my partner finished 2 laps. I drove like a madman home, loaded my other bike and drove back to COP. By the time I had finished getting ready...my partner rolled in and I took off.
Another problem arose right away...I don't have a bottle cage on my Prophet and I didn't think of grabbing my CamelBak. So I had to run the lap without any water at all. This was brutal, it was super hot outside and all I could think about was water each lap.
I finished my 3rd lap problem free came into the pit and my partner had just eaten so he checked to see if I was good to run another lap. I had the energy to, so I drank a whole bottle of water, half a bottle of Gatorade and took off for another lap. 4th lap I ran fine as well...must have been the full-suspension setup.
My partner ran another lap and then I ran the last one of the day....making it 5 laps. I had met my goal...although I think I would have been able to do more had I not crashed. I figure that my crash ended up costing us 2 or 3 laps. In total we did 10 laps. In retrospect I'm glad it was my bike that got smashedup and not me...or else I wouldn't have been able to help finish the race at all. We didn't come in last but I personally feel we probably could have done more laps which would have moved us up a bunch of spots.
Result: 16/18
Well there's always next year. I did end up getting a new frame and wheelset after this race...which is essentially a new bike. I didn't want to buy anymore bikes this year...but I'm really starting to enjoy racing...so I think I should have a proper racing bike that doesn't mess up my back.
Sunday, May 17, 2009
Bacon Buffet of Pain and Suffering
Goal for this race: Finish in the top half
Secondary goal: Ride the Houfallizer climb on each lap
After looking at the ABA schedule I thought for my first year I would do a race every other week. This one just happened to fall 2 weeks after Lethbridge...but to be honest...I probably would have done it either way. I was really looking forward to this race. Everyone I talked to said it was one of the best courses and it was a lot of fun. Also you get handed strips of bacon during the race...that is just awesome.
I was going to go the night before and get a hotel...but then I talked to a teammate and thought it might be better to just carpool early Saturday morning. Darcy came along to drive back home and we went up with another DG, Tori, as well. We got there in pretty good time to do a pre-ride thanks to a shortcut from Tori and this time I felt really good after doing a pre-race lap.
There was a really steep grassy hill climb (Houfallizer) back into the feed zone which I heard tales about but I really wanted to see if I could climb it everytime. The course itself was like a lot like Fish Creek Park...very twisty and rooty single-track. Not many places to pass and not a ton of elevation gain.
My third lap I rode cleanly. No dabs, bails and I managed to clean the log technical section. No mechnical issues and I managed to climb the steep hill for a third time. As always I use up everything I have on the final sprint for the finish.
Result: 11/29
I never did claim the 10 minute deduction from my time for being the only person that day to consume 5 pieces of bacon at one time...it would have put me in 4th place...but I'd rather see what I can do on my own.
I really enjoyed this race. The atmosphere was awesome. I felt way more relaxed and my teammates mentioned I looked a lot stronger on this race than in Lethbridge. I met a bunch of other riders and had a fun time all around. This is what mountain biking is all about...I love the community. I've noticed that mountain bikers are by far the coolest atheletes to hang around, it's like a big family. I didn't know if I could hold on for 3 laps a the start of the race but I managed to finish and still feel good.
After hearing stories the next week about the TransStonies challenge, I felt that I probably should have stayed for that 6 hour Enduro the next day but still not sure what my endurance limits are. Next race....Deadgoat Giver-8-er.
Secondary goal: Ride the Houfallizer climb on each lap
After looking at the ABA schedule I thought for my first year I would do a race every other week. This one just happened to fall 2 weeks after Lethbridge...but to be honest...I probably would have done it either way. I was really looking forward to this race. Everyone I talked to said it was one of the best courses and it was a lot of fun. Also you get handed strips of bacon during the race...that is just awesome.
I was going to go the night before and get a hotel...but then I talked to a teammate and thought it might be better to just carpool early Saturday morning. Darcy came along to drive back home and we went up with another DG, Tori, as well. We got there in pretty good time to do a pre-ride thanks to a shortcut from Tori and this time I felt really good after doing a pre-race lap.
There was a really steep grassy hill climb (Houfallizer) back into the feed zone which I heard tales about but I really wanted to see if I could climb it everytime. The course itself was like a lot like Fish Creek Park...very twisty and rooty single-track. Not many places to pass and not a ton of elevation gain.
My bike of choice this time was my Vertex. I had just recently replaced all the shifting cables and more importantly installed hydraulic disc brakes so I figured it was good to race this time.
After hearing final call for the start line I ran up th hill just in time to get my name called and get into the pack. This time I was much more relaxed and I felt pretty good. The whistle went off and everyone sprinted hard out of the gate. Midway through the first lap I started to settle into my own pace...which I held for the rest of the race...I was picking guys off during the power climbs and catching up on the hill climbs and straight away sprints.
On teh second lap, there was a log technical that was pretty high up and on a descent that I worried about during the pre-ride...I had ridden it on my first lap so thought I could do it again. I didn't have my weight far enough back and ended up going over the handlebars. First crash of the day. I picked up my bike, got back on and just started riding without checking myself...my knee was killing me but I figured I would ride through it and maybe forget about it. Then near the end of the lap when I was about to climb the big hill...my chain came off...forcing me to get off and get it back on again.
When I was on my way to completing my second lap someone yelled that if I ate 5 strips of bacon I would have 10 minutes taken off my total time...no one was in front of me and no one was behind me...so I figured I had 3o seconds to eat 5 strips of bacon. I grabbed a handful and just shoved all the bacon into my mouth , grabbed a new bottle of water from Darcy and rode off to complete my second lap. Trying to chew bacon, swallow and drink water to get it down meanwhile pinning your heart is not a good idea....in fact that was downright stupid. After I managed to force the bacon down my throat I continued on, just wanting to finish the race.
My third lap I rode cleanly. No dabs, bails and I managed to clean the log technical section. No mechnical issues and I managed to climb the steep hill for a third time. As always I use up everything I have on the final sprint for the finish.
Result: 11/29
I never did claim the 10 minute deduction from my time for being the only person that day to consume 5 pieces of bacon at one time...it would have put me in 4th place...but I'd rather see what I can do on my own.
I really enjoyed this race. The atmosphere was awesome. I felt way more relaxed and my teammates mentioned I looked a lot stronger on this race than in Lethbridge. I met a bunch of other riders and had a fun time all around. This is what mountain biking is all about...I love the community. I've noticed that mountain bikers are by far the coolest atheletes to hang around, it's like a big family. I didn't know if I could hold on for 3 laps a the start of the race but I managed to finish and still feel good.
After hearing stories the next week about the TransStonies challenge, I felt that I probably should have stayed for that 6 hour Enduro the next day but still not sure what my endurance limits are. Next race....Deadgoat Giver-8-er.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Midweek Mayhem
Well this week after getting fitted on my bikes I decided to attend a road racing clinic so that I could possibly do some road races next year. I don't really have a racing road bike right now...I have a modified cyclocross bike...so wasn't sure if I'd be able to keep up on the road races.
The road racing clinic was pretty interesting and I learned a lot from it. The information provided was group riding tips, strategies and techniques. I met some really cool people and after the clinic I was really looking forward to participating in the Tuesday night crits.
All of a sudden road racing didn't seem so intimidating anymore.
It was supposed to be a 2 day event with the next day being a lead up into the first crit race of the season...unfortunately it got cancelled because of heavy rain and construction on the course.
I still highly suggest that anyone with a road bike or 'cross bike with skinnies comes out the clinics. It really does help ease you into the discipline and take away a lot of the intimidation.
The road racing clinic was pretty interesting and I learned a lot from it. The information provided was group riding tips, strategies and techniques. I met some really cool people and after the clinic I was really looking forward to participating in the Tuesday night crits.
All of a sudden road racing didn't seem so intimidating anymore.
It was supposed to be a 2 day event with the next day being a lead up into the first crit race of the season...unfortunately it got cancelled because of heavy rain and construction on the course.
I still highly suggest that anyone with a road bike or 'cross bike with skinnies comes out the clinics. It really does help ease you into the discipline and take away a lot of the intimidation.
Sunday, May 3, 2009
Lethbridge Coulee Cruiser
This was it. My first ever ABA racing event.
Goal for this race: Finish the race.
I couldn't believe how much I stressed out the week before this race.
First issue was that my ABA Racing license had not arrived even though I had applied for it 4 weeks prior to this race. Because of this I could not pre-register for the race. I phoned up the organizer and they said it should be OK and that they'll put my name on a list in case it doesn't show up.
Second issue was driving to Lethbridge and back by myself for the first time. I knew is was going to be a long drive by myself and wasn't sure how I'd stay awake on the way back.
I packed everything the night before and triple checked to make sure I had all my essentials. I had shifting issues with my Vertex during the group mountain bike ride and didn't have time to fix it, so I decided to bring my Prophet with me for this race.
After getting to the venue I talked to the ABA rep and my license was there waiting for me. I paid my fee, got my plate and went over to where my team was setting up.
This is where I mae my first mistake. I met up with another DG and she wanted to watch the hill climb event...so I decided to go along and cheer on my teammates who were climbing it. I learned it is not a good idea to climb a 2km hill with a heavy trail bike without really warming up first. After the hill climb finished up, the MTB course was finally open for a pre-ride.
During the pre-ride my quads were already killing me...and they were considering 3 laps for my category.
After talking to ABA it looked like a lot of the Novices felt that 2 laps was enough for the first race of the season (and for a bunch of us...the first race ever). I didn't even think I could do 1 more lap, let alone 2. It was at this point the thought of dropping out the race crossed my mind...if only for a split second. Then I remembered Cyrus telling me that placing is secondary and the experience comes first...so I decided to just go out and give it my best. Racing is supposed to be hard...if it was easy, everyone would do it.
When we all lined up at the start, I was a nervous wreck. Although this was technically not my first mountain bike race, it sure felt like it. I looked around and I was one of the few people with a camelbak because my Prophet doesn't have space for a water bottle cage. I also had one of the heaviest bikes of the group, 5.5 inches of travel with no lockouts and these huge 2.25 all-mountain tires.
The whistle went and everyone just took off. I was getting passed like mad on the starting hilll climb and even on the downhill portions of the race. By the midway point of the first lap I was already sucking air bad...I could barely breathe properly.
The second lap came around and my team cheered for me while I grinded up the hill (slowly). I thought for sure I would nothing left for this lap...all I could think of was to just to keep pedalling. A few more riders passed me on the last half of the course and at this point I thought for sure, I was in last place. As I did the final descent it looked like someone in my category had taken the descent too fast and bailed into the bush. As I rode by I asked to make sure he was OK...I got the thumbs up so I kept going. Sweet...I'm not last anymore. I cranked out to the finish and was actually really happy I had just completed my first race. My goal for the day had been met.
After watching the experts and elites race I decided to call it a day and head back to Calgary.
To make it back...I had to drink my first ever full can of energy drink. Because I don't drink energy drinks at all...I was pretty wired the entire drive home. The road to Lethbridge is really boring...just so you know.
Final results: 12/21
I couldn't believe it when I saw the result. I guess I hadn't done as bad as I thought. I figure I could have done a little better if I had my Vertex and prepared myself better for the race....but this is what racing is all about...learning how to get better at it.
Things I learned:
1. Don't race the Prophet
2. Don't wear a Camelbak
3. Pre-riding the course is really important
4. Check to make sure you bring food and recovery/sport drinks to the race (I went the entire day on a bagel, orange juice and an oatmeal bar I found in my car...seriously...I had my first real meal when I got back to Calgary)
5. Stretch properly before and after the race
6. Get fitted on my bikes
7. Just giver
Goal for this race: Finish the race.
I couldn't believe how much I stressed out the week before this race.
First issue was that my ABA Racing license had not arrived even though I had applied for it 4 weeks prior to this race. Because of this I could not pre-register for the race. I phoned up the organizer and they said it should be OK and that they'll put my name on a list in case it doesn't show up.
Second issue was driving to Lethbridge and back by myself for the first time. I knew is was going to be a long drive by myself and wasn't sure how I'd stay awake on the way back.
I packed everything the night before and triple checked to make sure I had all my essentials. I had shifting issues with my Vertex during the group mountain bike ride and didn't have time to fix it, so I decided to bring my Prophet with me for this race.
After getting to the venue I talked to the ABA rep and my license was there waiting for me. I paid my fee, got my plate and went over to where my team was setting up.
This is where I mae my first mistake. I met up with another DG and she wanted to watch the hill climb event...so I decided to go along and cheer on my teammates who were climbing it. I learned it is not a good idea to climb a 2km hill with a heavy trail bike without really warming up first. After the hill climb finished up, the MTB course was finally open for a pre-ride.
During the pre-ride my quads were already killing me...and they were considering 3 laps for my category.
After talking to ABA it looked like a lot of the Novices felt that 2 laps was enough for the first race of the season (and for a bunch of us...the first race ever). I didn't even think I could do 1 more lap, let alone 2. It was at this point the thought of dropping out the race crossed my mind...if only for a split second. Then I remembered Cyrus telling me that placing is secondary and the experience comes first...so I decided to just go out and give it my best. Racing is supposed to be hard...if it was easy, everyone would do it.
When we all lined up at the start, I was a nervous wreck. Although this was technically not my first mountain bike race, it sure felt like it. I looked around and I was one of the few people with a camelbak because my Prophet doesn't have space for a water bottle cage. I also had one of the heaviest bikes of the group, 5.5 inches of travel with no lockouts and these huge 2.25 all-mountain tires.
The whistle went and everyone just took off. I was getting passed like mad on the starting hilll climb and even on the downhill portions of the race. By the midway point of the first lap I was already sucking air bad...I could barely breathe properly.
The second lap came around and my team cheered for me while I grinded up the hill (slowly). I thought for sure I would nothing left for this lap...all I could think of was to just to keep pedalling. A few more riders passed me on the last half of the course and at this point I thought for sure, I was in last place. As I did the final descent it looked like someone in my category had taken the descent too fast and bailed into the bush. As I rode by I asked to make sure he was OK...I got the thumbs up so I kept going. Sweet...I'm not last anymore. I cranked out to the finish and was actually really happy I had just completed my first race. My goal for the day had been met.
After watching the experts and elites race I decided to call it a day and head back to Calgary.
To make it back...I had to drink my first ever full can of energy drink. Because I don't drink energy drinks at all...I was pretty wired the entire drive home. The road to Lethbridge is really boring...just so you know.
Final results: 12/21
I couldn't believe it when I saw the result. I guess I hadn't done as bad as I thought. I figure I could have done a little better if I had my Vertex and prepared myself better for the race....but this is what racing is all about...learning how to get better at it.
Things I learned:1. Don't race the Prophet
2. Don't wear a Camelbak
3. Pre-riding the course is really important
4. Check to make sure you bring food and recovery/sport drinks to the race (I went the entire day on a bagel, orange juice and an oatmeal bar I found in my car...seriously...I had my first real meal when I got back to Calgary)
5. Stretch properly before and after the race
6. Get fitted on my bikes
7. Just giver
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