Back to Big Bear

Sunday was the first race of the season up at Big Bear (Race #4 of the California State Series). We only have three races there this year, as compared to previous years when we had at least 5 or 6. It's always nice to get back up to Big Bear and away from the heat down in the lowlands. The weather was great and the course conditions ended up being alot better than one week prior when Joy, Teri and I tried to guess what the race course would be.

The pleasant surprise was that we ended up racing on much more singletrack than I had expected. This made the day much more enjoyable than just racing on the sandy fire roads. We got to ride 1E01 going up (normally we go down), which made it fun and challenging. 1E01 is definately one of my favorite trails on the mountain. Also got to ride down Lower Falline to Fern trail which is also technical and fun! I give props to Team Big Bear who put together a great course!

I just flew back from Austin, TX (trip for work) on Friday night, so I was not feeling as energized as normal. Didn't think it would be a great day, but after the first 25 min or so of the race, my legs opened up. Still not sure where the energy came from (maybe my Espresso flavor Hammer Gel w/ caffeine?), but enjoying the course and the nice weather probably helped. Also, working with Teri at the start (who had an excellent start!) really helped motivate me through the first round of pain. She helped keep me from fading out during the first climbs. I was very proud of Teri yesterday because she was looking very strong when we were together and was having a great race until she flatted near the end of the course. I also enjoyed riding with Jeremy, Jay and Bob a few times in their respective race categories along the route.

I ended up finishing 2nd place overall. I guess I ended up feeling pretty strong yesterday as the race went on, even after travelling and not feeling super motivated to do the race. So I can't complain about that! It ended up being a good day. I know Carolyn wasn't feeling well (but still raced), else I probably would have had some more work ahead of me! Congrats to Mandy who finished 3rd and Tommara the usual 1st place finisher! Man she's fast!

Thanks to Jess, Chris and Nicole for coming up for the race! Also for bringing mini-Murphy (Jade the puppy who looks just like Murphy). Greg also enjoyed the company for sure!

Congrats to Team K&N Jeremy who also had another podium finish! Other podium pals include James, Jay and Papo! Congrats! It was also great to have in addtion to myself, Teri and Jeremy, fellow K&N teammates Matt and Trevor racing too. Might I add that Matt is not only a pro racer, but also has a 1 year old son!

Next stop: Santa Barbara Bike Festival in 2 weeks. Can't wait, should be a great course PLUS Fat Tire Beer on tap! That might entice Greg into going!