I got to ride with some of my closest buds on a beautiful Saturday morning after crap winter weather the last two weeks. Good times. There is something about exercising, socializing and being outside that makes me happy.

Switching gears. Today I finally pinned’em on for the first time this year. I am not sure the first race of the year should ever be a criterium. Especially after not really riding for two weeks. But when you pay to play, you race your bike. A big thanks to the University of Arkansas Cycling Club and Good Bikes for putting on a weekend of bicycle racing. The Arkansas Classic (a new event) was one of the biggest collegiate races in the SEC with 180 participants. My race was a 50 minute suffer fest. Kudos to Russell from Healthsouth Racing. He was clearly the strongest guy in the race and rode smart. I was just happy to finally race again and see some of my teammates. It’s funny how you start to reconnect with folks you haven’t seen all winter at the races. Looking forward to another great season. Hope to see you out there!

JV left some skin on the course. Still took the overall in his category. 

I suppose I need to shave my legs and make this racing thing official!