a Classic.
I do not have much street cred. to begin with as a bicycle racer and I do not claim to be good at it. I just really enjoy it. Starting and finishing the NWA Spring Classic yesterday meant way more to me then the result at the end. 32 degrees, snow/rain/snow, 20 mph winds, 40 mph gusts, wind chill in the teens. 72 miles, almost 4 hours in the saddle. I am so glad I showed up. I am so glad I finished. I am so glad it’s over. A race I will not soon forget.
Key moments. #1 The first 10 miles we road in the gutter with harsh accelerations and very little draft in a vicious crosswind. I told myself, “if this is what we are going to do for 3 hours…I’m out.” Finally, one of my teammates went up the road with a guy from the other team that had numbers and the bunch settled down. #2 I flatted just after Weaver Hill. I could barely change the wheel with my exposed freezing hands. It took longer than expected consequently I chased for about 6 miles. The worse part was going past the start finish and knowing my truck was parked there. I told myself, “if I don’t catch them before we hit the crosswind section…I’m out.” #3 I paused…took a few mental pictures. Thought of how ridiculous the conditions were how crazy this adventure truly was and finally cracked a smile. The phrase “meet the moment” came to mind.
What an awesome day.
Leave a Comment