I must say this was by far the most fun 40 minutes on a bike that I have had up to this point. I am a new to the team this year and I have had some good times even though I have yet to write about it. Well, I break my silence. I must say what a pleasure it is to be a part of this team, learning more about the sport in four months as a part of this team than ever before. With the crit and road seminars, FCTT’s, Saturday rides and just hanging out after the races I am soaking up the tid-bits of information. Lately on the forum there was some chatter about race titics and strategy, one specific exchange inspired me to think about the attack/counter attack.
The race was hopping from the start. I focused on hanging in with the pack. I missed the first break, thought it was a mistake because there was about ten guys up there. I thought for sure with those numbers they would stay out there for the remainder.
As the race continued the lead group was caught and fortunately I was feeling good. Late in the race, Seegs slipped out on a break. He got out there for a few and while he was out there, I worked my way up to about fourth or fifth wheel where I saw Liam trying to keep an eye on the front of the pack. When I saw the pack reeling Seegs back in I made the decision that if he was brought back in I would immediately counter attack. Mainly because I knew that we still had a bunch of strong xXx presence back in the pack. I hit it as hard as I could for about 200 meters and got back down to keep turning the pedals over more consistently to increase the gap. I knew that I was not strong enough to hold it till the end, so I was just hoping that when I got reeled back in another xXx’er would take a turn. Sure enough, Liam took off as soon as I got gobbled up and held it until the end. After I regained a bit of energy, I made my way back up to about fifth or sixth wheel. With about a lap to go I noticed an unusual bounce, which it turned out to be a flat and an end to my day. By the time I was completely out the pack was long gone and I was on the far side a ways from the finish. So I started walking my way back as I heard the announcer blear out “xXx, 1-2!”
It felt good to be a part of it, even though I didn’t make it to the finish line. Congrats to Seegs and Liam. (refer to their reports for the sweet details) Thanks to all who put on the race in Peoria. What a great site for a race. Will be back next year, to the finish.