A shot at XC Racing
As an avid mountain biker for almost ten years, I finally found the courage to race and try my hand at racing cross country (XC). I wanted to see how I would stack up against my age group. Last November, I entered the Mt. SAC ’s Fall Fat Tire Classic. I entered the Men’s Beginner 35-39 class. Wow, this was a big group. The course was 14 miles long (two 7 mile loops). This didn’t appear to be a problem as this was the average miles I rode recreationally. What I didn’t take into consideration was the adrenaline, the urgency to finish in a timely manner and not being familiar with the trail.
During the line-up, I spoke to several riders for pointers. All gave good advice, however it was a little too late. Maybe I should have done this weeks/months ago so I can prepare for it. Never the less, as a competitor in nature, I gave it my best shot. At GO, I sprinted on the asphalt on my way to the dirt trail.
On the final descent.
Approaching the Finish Line. At the bottom, catching my breath, I reflected on the last hour and half. I was very pleased that I finished the course. That was one of my main goals entering the race - if weather I can finish it. I didn’t place, I ended up somewhere on the bottom of the list but I was content. I certainly left the race feeling that I wanted more; more in a sense that I wanted to compete again.
With the year ending, I knew that there were local races scheduled in the beginning of 2008. This was to be my goal for next year – 2008. Enter races and do better than my first. After all, that is what we want to do…always improve.
During the line-up, I spoke to several riders for pointers. All gave good advice, however it was a little too late. Maybe I should have done this weeks/months ago so I can prepare for it. Never the less, as a competitor in nature, I gave it my best shot. At GO, I sprinted on the asphalt on my way to the dirt trail.
There was a bottleneck, then the first climb. With the adrenaline kicking in and seeing riders from my class and others passing me, I found myself exerting too much energy and somewhat in a panic mode. I gathered my composure and decided to ride my ride… conserve energy and exert where needed.
The first 7 mile loop was done. What a relief! Now 7 more to go… this time around I figured it’ll be easier as I knew what to expect. Halfway through the second lap, I found myself getting tired.
On the final descent.
Approaching the Finish Line. At the bottom, catching my breath, I reflected on the last hour and half. I was very pleased that I finished the course. That was one of my main goals entering the race - if weather I can finish it. I didn’t place, I ended up somewhere on the bottom of the list but I was content. I certainly left the race feeling that I wanted more; more in a sense that I wanted to compete again.
With the year ending, I knew that there were local races scheduled in the beginning of 2008. This was to be my goal for next year – 2008. Enter races and do better than my first. After all, that is what we want to do…always improve.
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