I was hoping it would rain. Hillsboro is the most fun in the rain. I inquired with my Portland comrades about the potential need for mud tires. Things didn't look promising.
Nope, it didn't rain. As much as I would have liked to believe Brad Ross (see above), that is rarely in one's best interest.
So, on a clear, blue sky morning in October, we drove over the mountain, through the woods, to the Hillsboro Fairgrounds complex - to race cross!
My legs were feeling close to their old selves again. I would say 97% back to normal; after a week of intensive self-care and good advice from Amber.
I was riding my new bike; lightweight, stiff, beautiful. Don had put the finishing touches on her Thursday morning. She was smooth as silk. I was hoping my legs could keep up with this new set of wheels.
Despite the flat, dry conditions, the Cross Crusade crew put together a fantastic course. I was excited to try to hang with Alice for as long as I could. I had a good start. Lead for a lap or two, hung with Alice for part of a third and then, she was off... I tried to keep her in my sights - but a gap was formed, and I couldn't close.
I raced hard. My legs cooperated. I got the bit of confidence back that I need going into this weekend's double header in Bend.
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| First....... Photo: Mike Albright |
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| Then.... Photo: PDXCross |
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| The End |
For more race coverage over at Cyclocross Magazine, click here.