2010 Cycling Season in Review

After State on Sunday, I have shut it down for a week. The bike is in the garage and I haven't even packed workout clothes on this trip. The week off is needed and is amazing and I am ok with having to miss Nationals. I am ok with it for this year, but I will be there next season for sure. I think it is good for all of us to take a minute to look at the year that has passed. I will do 3 or 4 more cross races this season, but they will all be part of the buildup to the road season.

I learned a number of things this year. I learned that power doesn't make the sprinter, guts and timing do. I learned that having teammates motivates me. I don't think I was faster or happier than the day I dragged Neal's ass around the crit in Superior. Finally, I learned that there is no better group of racers in the world than that of the Colorado Cross Community.

I entered into my first true season as a cyclist at 36 years of age, donning the white and blue of the Vic's/Peerless team. I cannot thank Len and the boys enough for the opportunity and the chance to race alongside of these supremely talented Masters cyclists. I am honored to be racing alongside them next season and for many years down the line. There were no wins on the road this year, but many a lesson learned and lots of fun was had. Hopefully, I can time a sprint or get away early or just show up to the start line on time in order to get a W this season.

Cross has been unreal. I walked into the year thinking I would try my hand in the Open field and hoping that I could avoid getting lapped. In the first race I couldn't and after my crashes, dropped chains and flats, I was lapped by 3 guys. It feels like years since then. I have managed to be top 20 a bunch of times this season and even toed the line in three UCI races. I keep getting better and I got a glimpse last weekend at State at what could be. I think I can truly compete with these guys. I have to improve my skills and my nerves, but there is a lot of power in these legs. There will be more time on the dirt this summer I promise and I will come back a married, skilled and hardened crosser in 2011.