2009 Road Racing Goals

[Julibird]

First of all, I woke up early last Sunday to peacefully prepare for my race. With a hot cup of java, I logged on to this forum for some inspiration and found Road Raven's kind and encouraging words. That was like a gift from the Tooth Fairy!

So - on to the race report. I loved it! Doing it again tomorrow. What I learned:

1. Fitness is essential for racing crits and since I'm fit that is good for me.

2. Even more important than fitness (maybe), is smart tactical decisions made quickly! I did a lot of watching, stayed just under threshold the whole time and got lots of recoveries while hiding in the front third. On the last lap, during one of these lulls, I was sitting up and relaxed, thinking "wow, this was sort of easy - next time I'll try to do something" when BAM! There was an attack and counter-attack - and as I watched, I realized I was under-geared and soon a big gap opened and I didn't react in time to minimize the gap - so the race rolled away as I said "wow, I'll never let that happen again, sh*t!" Leading to,

3. When in doubt, react! It's easier to gut it out for a short effort than to try and gut it out to close a big gap.

4. I love corners! Especially the uphill kind - I can make up about 5 places with less effort that the big people.

5. Recovery spots and lulls in the pack are dead giveaways for where attacks might happen. Don't let your guard down and get in the right gear for when it comes.

So - more crits, and on April 25, a nice hilly road race in Louden, NH - Turtle Pond - with my team in the Women's Cat3/4. Can't wait to see all those fast women!

That's me (the shrimp) in the black jacket and tights - orange, white and red Orbea. I was one of two women. My team mate was with me and and she rocked!