outofshape
Well as previously stated i began racing again after 15 years off the bike(last race and serious riding was 1993). I would have to say that my first race was a success even though I am a little disappointed.
I rode a very smart race, pacing myself and staying midpack throughout the race. I drifted all the way to the back for a couple of laps just to keep myself from going for any preams(sp) and tiring myself out for the final sprint.
With 3 to go I was mid pack and started to slowly move forward through the pack. With 1 to go I was about 10th, pretty much where I wanted to be. As we came to the last corner I made a bit of a mistake as I was on the inside going into the turn and got the door slammed on me by another rider and had to throw on the brakes. I regrouped quickly and found a wheel and then began my sprint from about 12th. I found some clear road to the right and quickly made up ground but ultimately ran out of real estate before I could catch everyone.
Just missed 3rd by half a wheel and ended up forth. The field was larger than I expected (30-40 riders) and the pace was certainly a bit quicker than I remembered (I averaged right at 24mph for the race).
My sprint is still pretty strong for an old guy (44) and I think i suprised some of the youngsters! I can say that all of the hard training the last few months has certainly payed off!
Until next week, adios!
Paul
I rode a very smart race, pacing myself and staying midpack throughout the race. I drifted all the way to the back for a couple of laps just to keep myself from going for any preams(sp) and tiring myself out for the final sprint.
With 3 to go I was mid pack and started to slowly move forward through the pack. With 1 to go I was about 10th, pretty much where I wanted to be. As we came to the last corner I made a bit of a mistake as I was on the inside going into the turn and got the door slammed on me by another rider and had to throw on the brakes. I regrouped quickly and found a wheel and then began my sprint from about 12th. I found some clear road to the right and quickly made up ground but ultimately ran out of real estate before I could catch everyone.
Just missed 3rd by half a wheel and ended up forth. The field was larger than I expected (30-40 riders) and the pace was certainly a bit quicker than I remembered (I averaged right at 24mph for the race).
My sprint is still pretty strong for an old guy (44) and I think i suprised some of the youngsters! I can say that all of the hard training the last few months has certainly payed off!
Until next week, adios!
Paul