So after finding out I was not broken, I figured that racing the next weekend was not entirely out of the question or crazy. After two rides during the week it still seemed a little iffy. Also, I was still walking around like a 60 year-old hip replacement recipient, so racing my bike was at least going to be interesting.
Thankfully the weather here had took another turn and it was glorious all week. Unfortunately I only got to see two days of it, since I was hanging out in my bed most of the time trying not to move. But as Saturday morning rolled around, so did the clouds.
Typically races start around 2 or 3pm here, but Saturday was a 10am start. We had been informed that our pick up was at 7:30. So basically everyone was up at 6am, shuffling for breakfast and coffee. Our course was to the Vendee Provincial Championships and from what we had been told the course was very rolling, but shorter at 100km.
Coming into the start town of Thoringy, we were graced with rain. The day was going to be wet and windy. Finally we got underway, with attacks out of the gun. We managed to stay dry for the first 20km, then the winds and rain came down. As we started to hit some crosswind sections the race was coming into groups and splitting. I was doing everything in my power to stay in the saddle and in the right position. Kalvis was able to make the break, as Ulmo and I stayed in the peleton following wheels.
After the second pass back through Thoringy, we hit another section of crosswinds. Somehow I had a lapse in attention and was in the autobus all of the sudden, realizing that the peleton in front of me was in reach I jumped across having to burn some matches to get there. Eventually we did right as the group hit one of the 120 degree corners.
With 40km to go we hit the local laps, which consisted of two climbs, making things not so easy on the legs. Halfway into the first lap Ulmo asked how far we were along and was opting to pull out since conditions were less than optimal. With 3 laps to go I felt ok up the KOM and found myself in the first 5 riders over the top. My legs were ok and I figured with the wind and course that someone might be able to stay away on the last lap.
Coming into the last lap, I tried to attack in the head wind section and was given some room. My move was soon countered and our speed did not drop under 50km/h until the KOM. As my legs recovered, I knew someone was going to want to kill it up the KOM, so I did the same and found myself off the front with 3 other riders. As we hit the top, the US Montobaun rider countered and I had no response. I was able to slot in line as we sat at 65km/h coming into the sprint. I found it a little funny since we were sprinting for maybe 10th at best. These guys were murdering it in horrible conditions. At 500 meters to go I figured 15th and 20th were no difference, so I rolled in safely as France has gotten enough of my skin.
I was pretty surprised at a top 20 result since I was still not walking normally and the course contained 6 KOM's for the day. Something that really is not suiting to my riding style. Hopefully I could repeat the performance tomorrow on a flatter parcourse.
Sunday was back to a typical or actually later start time, at 4pm. So we got to enjoy sleeping in since we were not getting picked up until 12:30. I was on my last day of antibiotics and hobbling a little less than Saturday. Today was prime to be a good day!
As we got to the start in a park in the middle of nowhere, there were a good amount of riders with a starting field of 110-120 riders. It was also extremely windy out so positioning today was going to be key. From the course description we got, there would be about 80km consisting of two loops and then a finishing circuit in Riaille. The race was typical from KM 0, attacks galore. As we came through every city, the amount of traffic furniture was an issue, it seemed we had 5-7 round-abouts and 3-4 traffic islands to avoid in every city we rolled through. About 20km into the race, we rolled into one of the smaller cities, made a sharp left and all of the sudden it was like being in a gun range.
Little did we know at two meters from each curb and in the middle of the road where small (one meter high) signs. Each one of these signs claimed riders. Overall, I think 6 riders hit signs, seeing and hearing it was quiet an experience. These riders created a yard sale in the road taking down 10 more riders. Thankfully I was right in the middle of this as it happened and managed to avoid all carnage. Coming to a stop to traverse the downed riders was not something I wanted to do, but it was better than being the guy on the ground.
Obviously this caused a massive split with about 50 riders going clear. I put my head down and got in line for the chase. As it looked like we made it back in 10 minutes, I realized that 4 riders infront of me a rider pulled the plug after leaving an 800m gap. At these speeds and wind, that was going to be super hard to pull back. Being in a group of 8 riders we rolled turns trying to make it back. Unfortunately this just did not happen.
The organization allowed us to come into the local laps, but then we were forced to retire after that. True to French racing, 35 riders finished from our huge field. At the car some laughs were exchanged about the crash, because Kalvis was thinking there was no way I could crash again and was worried since I was not in the field and riders had to be transported to hospitals after that crash. Fortunately I was just gapped off. Be it bad luck, I will take that any day over winding up on the ground again!
Monday, May 31, 2010
Sunday, May 30, 2010
France's Bag O'Tricks
So finding the motivation to actually write this post and give it the time needed for all the unnecessary emotion to pass has taken longer than I had anticipated, but at least things now are more positive and have a better outlook.
As for last weekend's racing, I was really looking forward to racing hard since my form was coming along great and I was able to really start to give it some gas and I was ready to showcase this in our upcoming events. Unfortunately this country had other plans for me.
We sign in, take our photos, say hello to the announcers and then it is all business. We need to get the legs opened up because we start with a KOM right out of the gate. Navigating the city streets is easier said than done in this light and especially in a French Cup race, there are people everywhere.
Finishing my warm up, as I make the final turn back up to where the team car is, I see the rider in front of me swerve and then BAM!!! I am on the ground again! Laying there thinking WTF just happened. I look up and there is some guy with the deer in headlights look trying to apologize to me. Looks like I found a spectator and my bike made friends with him. As I tried to get up, I was in excruciating pain. My leg felt broken. I looked at my arm and my scar tissue from my brash with death had completely been split in half and was gushing blood.
As I used my bike as a crutch to get back to the team car, I lost it emotionally.I completely broke. I just could not grasp why these things were happening to me. I had such good form and then this was being stripped from me. I broke into tears as I waited for the medic to come look at me.
Being physically tough, I wanted to at least try and start the race. I rode up the hill to the start line and realized this was not possible. I could not get out of the saddle, and barely pedal in the saddle. Something was wrong, again.
I spent the rest of the day in the car, upset. I figured out after getting out one time that, I was not going to be moving much, since it took me about five minutes to even get out of the car.
Seeing the strain this put on me, when we made it home Albert flat out asked me if I wanted to pack up my bags and just go home. He was sharing my frustration. I knew I was not going to be racing Sunday. I tried to spin my legs out Sunday and it was pretty rough doing 70 watts and trying to block out the pain I felt. Racing Monday became out of the question.
Since Monday was a National Holiday, this meant I would have to wait until Tuesday to see a Doctor. Monday was by far the worst day pain wise that I had been in. I was convinced my pelvis or femur was fractured. Walking was almost impossible and any movements caused a stabbing pain.
Thankfully I woke up Tuesday in far less pain, walked to the Doctor and found out that my joint and bursa were completely inflamed and I had also bruised my knee and ankle. Pretty much all things were damaged somewhat on that side. He gave me some prescriptions and noted that I should take 5-7 days off from any activity.
In cyclist lingo this means four days. After one day of medications I was feeling quiet better! By Thursday I cleared myself for the weekend and figured if I was going to be racing I better go out and at least see if I could ride my bike.
In the first five minutes things felt completely different. I was able to pedal, I was able to get out of the saddle. I was able to ride at some speed and force. Thankfully things were turning around. Friday was another day in progression, as I had to do some intervals to get the legs going for the weekend. I could feel things breaking down, but it was definite the weekend was not going to be easy because the openers were a little painful.
On the bike I began to laugh, knowing that this whole time in this country, I have been like a "Bozo" blow up punching bag. This country is the little boy, waiting to smack "Bozo" as hard as he can, hoping he stays down. Well just like "Bozo" I keep bouncing up. I will take the licks, but I will keep coming back. Persistence will always pay off because if you give up, you will always wonder how close you were. So buck up, know that sometimes you have to take a proverbial "punch" then comeback stronger and smarter than before!
As for last weekend's racing, I was really looking forward to racing hard since my form was coming along great and I was able to really start to give it some gas and I was ready to showcase this in our upcoming events. Unfortunately this country had other plans for me.
We sign in, take our photos, say hello to the announcers and then it is all business. We need to get the legs opened up because we start with a KOM right out of the gate. Navigating the city streets is easier said than done in this light and especially in a French Cup race, there are people everywhere.
Finishing my warm up, as I make the final turn back up to where the team car is, I see the rider in front of me swerve and then BAM!!! I am on the ground again! Laying there thinking WTF just happened. I look up and there is some guy with the deer in headlights look trying to apologize to me. Looks like I found a spectator and my bike made friends with him. As I tried to get up, I was in excruciating pain. My leg felt broken. I looked at my arm and my scar tissue from my brash with death had completely been split in half and was gushing blood.
As I used my bike as a crutch to get back to the team car, I lost it emotionally.I completely broke. I just could not grasp why these things were happening to me. I had such good form and then this was being stripped from me. I broke into tears as I waited for the medic to come look at me.
Being physically tough, I wanted to at least try and start the race. I rode up the hill to the start line and realized this was not possible. I could not get out of the saddle, and barely pedal in the saddle. Something was wrong, again.
I spent the rest of the day in the car, upset. I figured out after getting out one time that, I was not going to be moving much, since it took me about five minutes to even get out of the car.
Seeing the strain this put on me, when we made it home Albert flat out asked me if I wanted to pack up my bags and just go home. He was sharing my frustration. I knew I was not going to be racing Sunday. I tried to spin my legs out Sunday and it was pretty rough doing 70 watts and trying to block out the pain I felt. Racing Monday became out of the question.
Since Monday was a National Holiday, this meant I would have to wait until Tuesday to see a Doctor. Monday was by far the worst day pain wise that I had been in. I was convinced my pelvis or femur was fractured. Walking was almost impossible and any movements caused a stabbing pain.
Thankfully I woke up Tuesday in far less pain, walked to the Doctor and found out that my joint and bursa were completely inflamed and I had also bruised my knee and ankle. Pretty much all things were damaged somewhat on that side. He gave me some prescriptions and noted that I should take 5-7 days off from any activity.
In cyclist lingo this means four days. After one day of medications I was feeling quiet better! By Thursday I cleared myself for the weekend and figured if I was going to be racing I better go out and at least see if I could ride my bike.
In the first five minutes things felt completely different. I was able to pedal, I was able to get out of the saddle. I was able to ride at some speed and force. Thankfully things were turning around. Friday was another day in progression, as I had to do some intervals to get the legs going for the weekend. I could feel things breaking down, but it was definite the weekend was not going to be easy because the openers were a little painful.
On the bike I began to laugh, knowing that this whole time in this country, I have been like a "Bozo" blow up punching bag. This country is the little boy, waiting to smack "Bozo" as hard as he can, hoping he stays down. Well just like "Bozo" I keep bouncing up. I will take the licks, but I will keep coming back. Persistence will always pay off because if you give up, you will always wonder how close you were. So buck up, know that sometimes you have to take a proverbial "punch" then comeback stronger and smarter than before!
Thursday, May 20, 2010
New Sponsor! Support Clean Racing!!!!
Check out the things from Bikepure.org, I am very happy to be wearing there bands and displaying their items on my bike. There are man clean athletes out there, and I do too strive for transparency in our sport.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Breaking Mirrors! Stage Race Perils,,,
At best my voyage to France has been 50/50 on the scale of success and failure. Which in cycling, is pretty normal. It is the hardest sport in the world by far, it will steal your wallet, punch you in the face and kick you while your down. So basically you have to cherish the good things you have done in your career and not concentrate on the setbacks...
As the weekend started, we headed for Orleans on Thursday for Friday start of my first big French Stage Race, Tour De Loriet. I was kind of nervous, but just wanted to have a good showing and make it to Sunday where the one Sprinter's stage would happen.
We arrived after a 4.5 hour drive in the team box truck. We unloaded, and then were given new team track suits for presentations and dinner. So they were pretty sweet, presents always make things fun. As we came into the hotel restaurant, our itinerary showed that we would be getting the full five course treatment for meals we would have! This was pretty awesome, finally we moved away from team ham sandwiches to something more exotic. Our first dinner was amazing, and unfortunately I had not the best time sleeping before the first stage. Not sure if it was the nerves or the hard bed, sleep just did not happen.
Getting to the staging area, we all kitted up and went for the team presentation. The day looked to be cold with possible rain showers. I also was told I couldn't wear my non-issue team arm warmers, so today I was just going to have to suffer through being cold. As I was getting my shoes on, I was able to sign my first autograph to a guy that looked like Kim Jong Il's brother. So that was cool. Finally got to warming up, and had some weird issues with my chain dropping, so went back to the team car and my rear derailleur was super bent inwards, so as soon as I touched it, the derailleur snapped off into my hands. Seriously, at this point I wasn't sure weather to laugh or cry.
Everyone from the team went into a panic as we heard from the announcer that all riders were departing in 7 minutes. The bad thing is that the BH Connect frame uses its own style hanger, and the team only had extra hangers for the G4 style frames. Next thing I know my pedals were on a size small or xs small spare from the truck. Trying to get the saddle height as close to we could. I had no time to change the 90mm stem to something more fitting either. Then bam, I was off on a bike that was way to small and was completely unadjusted.
As we had the first neutral 4km to get out of Orleans, I knew the day was going to be miserable. There was no possible way I could even ride the drops, the saddle height was one inch higher than the maximum suggested height and the shifting was beyond sticky. Thankfully I was a master at making campy work under duress.
Next thing I know, we are stopped for the official start at km 0. Then we are off. I had no computer or the notes for the stage were on my bike, so I was hitting things completely blind. I knew that there was a prize at the 45km mark and figured I could see how the legs were for that. Unfortunately, we were off like a rocket. The racing was extremely fast for the first 100km, which we covered in 2 hours. Part of this due to a repetitively flat par-course, since we only had two categorized climbs before hitting the finishing laps where there were 6 categorized climbs.
As the kilometers passed, I noticed some extreme discomfort in my knee. I was pedaling complete squares. My position was completely off. This would be fine for just hanging out, but not at those speeds, distance and intensity. Finally the third time up the climb I completely snapped. I couldn't even pedal. So I figured I would ride a steady tempo and finish the day. With one time left up the climb, I had the race director ask me if I wanted to continue and of course the answer was "oui." No matter how much it hurt, I was making it to Sunday. Not but 30 seconds later, his car swerved in front of me. I stopped, we argued and then I was forced to abandon.
Not but five minutes from pedaling, the swelling in my knee started and also extreme pain. Moving into the team vehicle and changing was extremely painful. This was not good, since this was the knee involved in the horrible crash in Loches. Being pretty upset with the day, everyone knew that it was going to happen. Getting thrown onto a bike you never have ridden, then having to ride a course like that meant nothing less than doom.
The team seemed to miss the split in stage one, but then Kalvis was able to win the field sprint. Moving to Stage two, a crash and bad crosswinds created a break that all the teams except ours and the Slovak team were in. The Slovakians had 3 riders abandon during the stage, so bringing it back was not going to happen. Especially since the yellow jersey's team had a rider in the move as well.
Our team salvaged some face as Kalvis won stage 3. This let off some pressure and the team went into the time trial with a grain of salt. We finished up and headed out for our long drive home.
Not sure how my knee was going to feel, I spent my Monday morning building up a spare 56cm frame. Got all the measurements dialed in and took it out for 2 hours of steady tempo. Thankfully after 1.5 hours my knee finally started to feel ok. Hopefully my slew of bad luck will turn around since I don't remember breaking any mirrors.
As the weekend started, we headed for Orleans on Thursday for Friday start of my first big French Stage Race, Tour De Loriet. I was kind of nervous, but just wanted to have a good showing and make it to Sunday where the one Sprinter's stage would happen.
We arrived after a 4.5 hour drive in the team box truck. We unloaded, and then were given new team track suits for presentations and dinner. So they were pretty sweet, presents always make things fun. As we came into the hotel restaurant, our itinerary showed that we would be getting the full five course treatment for meals we would have! This was pretty awesome, finally we moved away from team ham sandwiches to something more exotic. Our first dinner was amazing, and unfortunately I had not the best time sleeping before the first stage. Not sure if it was the nerves or the hard bed, sleep just did not happen.
Getting to the staging area, we all kitted up and went for the team presentation. The day looked to be cold with possible rain showers. I also was told I couldn't wear my non-issue team arm warmers, so today I was just going to have to suffer through being cold. As I was getting my shoes on, I was able to sign my first autograph to a guy that looked like Kim Jong Il's brother. So that was cool. Finally got to warming up, and had some weird issues with my chain dropping, so went back to the team car and my rear derailleur was super bent inwards, so as soon as I touched it, the derailleur snapped off into my hands. Seriously, at this point I wasn't sure weather to laugh or cry.
Everyone from the team went into a panic as we heard from the announcer that all riders were departing in 7 minutes. The bad thing is that the BH Connect frame uses its own style hanger, and the team only had extra hangers for the G4 style frames. Next thing I know my pedals were on a size small or xs small spare from the truck. Trying to get the saddle height as close to we could. I had no time to change the 90mm stem to something more fitting either. Then bam, I was off on a bike that was way to small and was completely unadjusted.
As we had the first neutral 4km to get out of Orleans, I knew the day was going to be miserable. There was no possible way I could even ride the drops, the saddle height was one inch higher than the maximum suggested height and the shifting was beyond sticky. Thankfully I was a master at making campy work under duress.
Next thing I know, we are stopped for the official start at km 0. Then we are off. I had no computer or the notes for the stage were on my bike, so I was hitting things completely blind. I knew that there was a prize at the 45km mark and figured I could see how the legs were for that. Unfortunately, we were off like a rocket. The racing was extremely fast for the first 100km, which we covered in 2 hours. Part of this due to a repetitively flat par-course, since we only had two categorized climbs before hitting the finishing laps where there were 6 categorized climbs.
As the kilometers passed, I noticed some extreme discomfort in my knee. I was pedaling complete squares. My position was completely off. This would be fine for just hanging out, but not at those speeds, distance and intensity. Finally the third time up the climb I completely snapped. I couldn't even pedal. So I figured I would ride a steady tempo and finish the day. With one time left up the climb, I had the race director ask me if I wanted to continue and of course the answer was "oui." No matter how much it hurt, I was making it to Sunday. Not but 30 seconds later, his car swerved in front of me. I stopped, we argued and then I was forced to abandon.
Not but five minutes from pedaling, the swelling in my knee started and also extreme pain. Moving into the team vehicle and changing was extremely painful. This was not good, since this was the knee involved in the horrible crash in Loches. Being pretty upset with the day, everyone knew that it was going to happen. Getting thrown onto a bike you never have ridden, then having to ride a course like that meant nothing less than doom.
The team seemed to miss the split in stage one, but then Kalvis was able to win the field sprint. Moving to Stage two, a crash and bad crosswinds created a break that all the teams except ours and the Slovak team were in. The Slovakians had 3 riders abandon during the stage, so bringing it back was not going to happen. Especially since the yellow jersey's team had a rider in the move as well.
Our team salvaged some face as Kalvis won stage 3. This let off some pressure and the team went into the time trial with a grain of salt. We finished up and headed out for our long drive home.
Not sure how my knee was going to feel, I spent my Monday morning building up a spare 56cm frame. Got all the measurements dialed in and took it out for 2 hours of steady tempo. Thankfully after 1.5 hours my knee finally started to feel ok. Hopefully my slew of bad luck will turn around since I don't remember breaking any mirrors.
Monday, May 10, 2010
50/50 Weekends and Sweet Euro Crits
After a slew of races that really have not fit my personal skill-sets, it was nice to know I would be racing a "Nocturn" for the first time in my stay. Basically, a "Nocturn" is a French version of a night criterium. This promised to be very exciting since going uphill is not my specialty, but going fast in tight corners and bumping is something that comes naturally to me.
As the days came down to race day, the weather seemed to take a turn for the worse. It seemed Friday we awoke to a very overcast day with a lot of spotted showers and sure rain for in the forecast for Saturday. This was not exciting, since I do night races, but I am not a fan of them in the rain.
Thankfully as Saturday progressed, the rain cleared and we were off to Doule le Fontaine for a dry night crit! The weather was a little chilly as we dipped below 50 degrees for the start. Glad we had enough time to preview the course as the last kilometer was pretty hectic. The last corner especially being tricky with it being downhill, a rain grate that extended the length of the road, traffic island, raised crosswalk and cobbles. The last kilometer comprised itself of 5 corners, cobbles, an addition traffic island and raised crosswalk on top of the aforementioned items for the final corner.
The course itself was more of a big circuit than the typical American Criterium course. Each lap was around 3.5 kilometers and sent us around some wide and narrow streets of Doule le Fontaine. Also things are done in laps here, so we were set to race 90km in total instead of a set time. Definitely longer than most American Criteriums, it would be interesting to see how the race would play out.
As we were called up to the starting line, something hilarious happened. It may have not been funny to anyone else but me, because sometimes things just do not transverse culturally. "What is Love" started blaring from the speakers, and I chuckled looking around to see who else would be nodding their heads like Will Ferrell or Chris Kattan. But unfortunately everyone was really seriously looking or really into the song. This was more funny then seeing someone nod their head. And just like that we were off!
Rolling out slowly, I was primed for attacking from the go but was informed that we were doing a neutral half lap and then the race would be on. Even getting past the neutral it seemed like we were going to do a full lap neutral until right before the last kilometer. Then it was on. Knowing how dicey it was, I knew I had to be towards the front to avoid any early mishaps and hit the final corner and gave it as much gas as I could. After I passed the line, I looked back and had a gap so I put my head down and went for it.
Shortly after being caught, my teammate Kalvis counter attacked and that was the move. He drew out three riders with him and the only team with multiple riders, E'leclerc completely missed the move. They also had 5 riders inforce. So for the next 80km I was following their attempts to go across and or bring back the break. Eventually things dwindled down and the front group began to shred. It got to a point where E'leclerc was just sending guys up the road for us to chase them. This caused a split in groups with 3 to go. I found myself jumping across and then the group split again and I couldn't make it across.
Sadly being ok with the group I was in, I had no other options but to win the sprint in our group. As we came into the final kilometer last years winner attacked and sat up before the 2nd of the 5 final corners. I just put my head down again, made it to the last corner and kicked again as hard as I could. I thought I might get passed by the line as I could hear the gears shifting behind me, but I was able to stick it out for 14th. Kalvis was able to snag 3rd place. So we ended on the podium!
The only downside to Nocturn racing is that we didn't get home until 10:30pm and had to leave the next day at 11am for Sunday's event. This left little time for a shower, food, stretching and sleep. Thankfully I was able to fall asleep rather easily and able to get up the next morning with enough time for a decent breakfast and coffee.
Heading to Sunday's race, we really were unsure of the course and distance. We finally got to the start in Sarent, the course was going to be very difficult. The field was also quiet large with 100+ riders and the French Continental team, Sojasun was also in attendance. As we started, things we thankfully neutral as we navigated out of Sarent due to the amount of traffic obstacles and narrow roads. Many riders opted for sidewalks and some off roading to avoid crashing. Clearing neutral we were graced with a nice 2km climb. This definitely made the legs scream, especially due to bad cross wind and chaos at the front of the field.
With the confusion, a small break formed and it seemed that Sojasun missed it as well as the Cotes D'Amour team. So they decided to gutter the rest of the field in the cross wind for the next 40 minutes. As we came through some narrow farm roads, I seemed to drill a nice pot hole trying to stay at the front of the group and heard the explosion of my rear tyre. With my arm up, I got a change pretty fast and spent the next few moments behind the car trying to make it back to the caravan. Unfortunately the officials decided that my day was over and I ended up going for a training ride.
I tried to stay on the course, but ended up getting lost somewhere along the way. With no phone or anything else this mean a nice u-turn and backtrack to get to the start town. I got into Sarent shortly before the remnants of the peloton made it back. I ended my day with some bottle duty and just tried to stay focused on next weekend.
Coming up for next weekend, we have a stage race starting on Friday, three days and four stages. Two of the stages being relatively flat and a short time trial. This will give yet another opportunity to shine. Until then....
As the days came down to race day, the weather seemed to take a turn for the worse. It seemed Friday we awoke to a very overcast day with a lot of spotted showers and sure rain for in the forecast for Saturday. This was not exciting, since I do night races, but I am not a fan of them in the rain.
Thankfully as Saturday progressed, the rain cleared and we were off to Doule le Fontaine for a dry night crit! The weather was a little chilly as we dipped below 50 degrees for the start. Glad we had enough time to preview the course as the last kilometer was pretty hectic. The last corner especially being tricky with it being downhill, a rain grate that extended the length of the road, traffic island, raised crosswalk and cobbles. The last kilometer comprised itself of 5 corners, cobbles, an addition traffic island and raised crosswalk on top of the aforementioned items for the final corner.
The course itself was more of a big circuit than the typical American Criterium course. Each lap was around 3.5 kilometers and sent us around some wide and narrow streets of Doule le Fontaine. Also things are done in laps here, so we were set to race 90km in total instead of a set time. Definitely longer than most American Criteriums, it would be interesting to see how the race would play out.
As we were called up to the starting line, something hilarious happened. It may have not been funny to anyone else but me, because sometimes things just do not transverse culturally. "What is Love" started blaring from the speakers, and I chuckled looking around to see who else would be nodding their heads like Will Ferrell or Chris Kattan. But unfortunately everyone was really seriously looking or really into the song. This was more funny then seeing someone nod their head. And just like that we were off!
Rolling out slowly, I was primed for attacking from the go but was informed that we were doing a neutral half lap and then the race would be on. Even getting past the neutral it seemed like we were going to do a full lap neutral until right before the last kilometer. Then it was on. Knowing how dicey it was, I knew I had to be towards the front to avoid any early mishaps and hit the final corner and gave it as much gas as I could. After I passed the line, I looked back and had a gap so I put my head down and went for it.
Shortly after being caught, my teammate Kalvis counter attacked and that was the move. He drew out three riders with him and the only team with multiple riders, E'leclerc completely missed the move. They also had 5 riders inforce. So for the next 80km I was following their attempts to go across and or bring back the break. Eventually things dwindled down and the front group began to shred. It got to a point where E'leclerc was just sending guys up the road for us to chase them. This caused a split in groups with 3 to go. I found myself jumping across and then the group split again and I couldn't make it across.
Sadly being ok with the group I was in, I had no other options but to win the sprint in our group. As we came into the final kilometer last years winner attacked and sat up before the 2nd of the 5 final corners. I just put my head down again, made it to the last corner and kicked again as hard as I could. I thought I might get passed by the line as I could hear the gears shifting behind me, but I was able to stick it out for 14th. Kalvis was able to snag 3rd place. So we ended on the podium!
The only downside to Nocturn racing is that we didn't get home until 10:30pm and had to leave the next day at 11am for Sunday's event. This left little time for a shower, food, stretching and sleep. Thankfully I was able to fall asleep rather easily and able to get up the next morning with enough time for a decent breakfast and coffee.
Heading to Sunday's race, we really were unsure of the course and distance. We finally got to the start in Sarent, the course was going to be very difficult. The field was also quiet large with 100+ riders and the French Continental team, Sojasun was also in attendance. As we started, things we thankfully neutral as we navigated out of Sarent due to the amount of traffic obstacles and narrow roads. Many riders opted for sidewalks and some off roading to avoid crashing. Clearing neutral we were graced with a nice 2km climb. This definitely made the legs scream, especially due to bad cross wind and chaos at the front of the field.
With the confusion, a small break formed and it seemed that Sojasun missed it as well as the Cotes D'Amour team. So they decided to gutter the rest of the field in the cross wind for the next 40 minutes. As we came through some narrow farm roads, I seemed to drill a nice pot hole trying to stay at the front of the group and heard the explosion of my rear tyre. With my arm up, I got a change pretty fast and spent the next few moments behind the car trying to make it back to the caravan. Unfortunately the officials decided that my day was over and I ended up going for a training ride.
I tried to stay on the course, but ended up getting lost somewhere along the way. With no phone or anything else this mean a nice u-turn and backtrack to get to the start town. I got into Sarent shortly before the remnants of the peloton made it back. I ended my day with some bottle duty and just tried to stay focused on next weekend.
Coming up for next weekend, we have a stage race starting on Friday, three days and four stages. Two of the stages being relatively flat and a short time trial. This will give yet another opportunity to shine. Until then....
Monday, May 3, 2010
Specialists Weekend
After another week full of training (no midweek races) and an increase of hours for me, we headed into a group of races for the "specialists." This being those specialists who can dance up the hills. This is not really my specialty, being from the flattest state in the union and only having handfuls of races over the past two years with any sort of climbing in them. Unfortunately France does not do "I can't" so it's sink or swim here, you have to show up and give everything you can.
Saturday's car ride was not too bad, since Bauge was only a little North-esque of Angers, this mean only about an hour and a half in the car. After grabbing our numbers from registration, I got my first look at the course ahead of us. It looked like quiet the day ahead of us for the the Tour de Bauge.
Our map showed a big loop of a little more than 100km before coming back into Bauge for 40km of local laps. Looking at the course profile was personally discouraging, the day had 9 categorized climbs ahead of us before coming into the local laps. Thankfully the only Cat. 1 climb was 30km into the loop, making for a pretty epic first hour of racing.
As we got underway, we were headed out of Bauge neutral for the first 4km or so. This meant a nice little spin to get the legs moving before things got underway. As soon as we got out of the city limits, the attacks came from the gun. Being that a lot of teams had full squads, the race was pretty controlled and nothing threatening went up the road.
We maintained a steady pace up the first climb and as we headed into the one category 1 climb, the pace had become infernal. I had a feeling things were going to split eventually but I was unsure when. As the climb began it was in a strong crosswind, as predicted a group was able to get a gap on the field. Unfortunately we missed it. I was happy to just make it over the top in the group, but Stefan was off the map and assembled after the climb pretty upset that he missed the move.
Being one of the only teams to not have a rider in the move, we spent most of the day at the front. I did as much work as possible, strung it out up one of the climbs and spent the next 10 minutes hanging on to the wheel infront of me, hoping to not pop.
Finally as we were coming close back into Bauge, we came through a chicane and hit one of the steepest climbs I have ridden a bike up. Thankfully it was only about 1.5km long, because there were riders getting shot all over the place. Personally, I was peeling out up some of steeper areas trying to be out of the saddle and keep weight towards the end of my rig was easier said than done.
I made it over, but the next 10 minutes we were single file. Coming into the city limits a rider about 5 places infront of me pulled the plug, leaving a huge gap in the crosswind. I did everything I could to close the gap, it just was not happening at that speed. I rode in the caravan to the local laps and called it a day. As the laps counted down, Stefan had a bit of bad luck with a touch of wheels. Thankfully he only had some minor scrapes.
Everyone was pretty heated after the race. When the team leader has a bad day it sort of trickles down on everyone else. I felt pretty bad for not being able to help more and explained my regrets and hoped it was enough.
After coming home, we heard that Sunday's race was a three hour or so drive, so the cars would be arriving at 10am. This did not give the most optimal time for making dinner, stretching, foam rolling, showering, getting ready and most importantly sleeping. Thankfully, I was able to get my list taken care of and get into bed before midnight.
As the morning came, I was feeling a little better than Saturday but still unsure about the course ahead of us. Kalvis informed me that at some point in the loop we had a long 4km climb. I was not really looking forward to that.
In the car, we headed for our 3 hour jaunt. Our destination was Villaines la Juhel and as we got closer my nerves decided to turn things up to Mach One. We were definitely going to be in a very hilly region, there were going to be no flat sections of the race today. Also the weather was not our friend today, rain was coming down and it was a bit chilly. Today was going to be a race of the hard.
Before we started, Albert expressed his desire for me to race very aggressively today, so survival was not on the menu. I had not been this nervous before a race in a while.
After a wet warm up, the clouds parted for our depart and sun warmed things up for the first neutral kilometers. As we came from neutral, the attacks were more organized especially since it was more windy. I had a feeling things were going to be in pieces and I was not getting left behind. I hit it immediately. Making my way into the breakaway. We got organized, and had a great gap. I took my share of the work and shortly this attack became a field split.
Our group came to about 40 riders and about 4 climbs later, Stefan attacked creating a break of 5 up the road. This meant that our job became following wheels. For the next 30km, I felt great. Over every climb, I was feeling better and better. With about 10km to go to the long climb of the course the E.Leclerc team was assembled at the front because they missed the move. They worked on bringing things back and keeping it strung out. This shredded what was left of the group, bringing us to about 25 or so riders. Midway up the climb riders began to attack to try and get across to Stefan, I marked two attacks and did my best to hang on to the group, but completely blew up with 500m to the top.
I got the thumbs up from Albert as he passed in the caravan, so that was a plus. I was also gathered up by 3 riders from the E.Leclerc team. We rode together up the next two climbs, where they decided to pack it in at the top of the 2nd climb. This was not an option for me. As I descended on a road about as narrow as a bike path, I kept a steady pace and had a car come up and tell me a second group was about 2 minutes or so behind.
Figuring that the group would catch me sooner or later, I soft pedaled until the group was with me. One of my teammates was in the group as well. It was really the first time that I saw him all day. We hit two more categorized climbs before heading into the local laps. I knew that the rest of the day was about fitness and got on the front as much as possible. As things closed down, I was able to get 4th in the uphill sprint for our group and 14th for the day, surprising since a lot of riders had pulled out. Stefan sealed the win, and Kalvis took 4th. Overall as a team we nabbed 2nd in the team competition as well. It was a good day for Team Bigot.
After the 120km, I was a little rough for ware. I missed two feeds doing the whole race with one bottle. We also braved rain, a little snow at the top of the big climb and some dirt roads. It was definitely a good day for me personally, since I don't regard myself as a climber. Being able to ride in the group is great for me, being able to attack is even better. Thankfully next Saturday is something I am good at, CRITS!!! I am really looking forward to giving it full gas in my first European Criterium. This week is also a rest week too, after last week of nearly 400 miles of training the legs will enjoy shorter rides! Thanks for reading!
Saturday's car ride was not too bad, since Bauge was only a little North-esque of Angers, this mean only about an hour and a half in the car. After grabbing our numbers from registration, I got my first look at the course ahead of us. It looked like quiet the day ahead of us for the the Tour de Bauge.
Our map showed a big loop of a little more than 100km before coming back into Bauge for 40km of local laps. Looking at the course profile was personally discouraging, the day had 9 categorized climbs ahead of us before coming into the local laps. Thankfully the only Cat. 1 climb was 30km into the loop, making for a pretty epic first hour of racing.
As we got underway, we were headed out of Bauge neutral for the first 4km or so. This meant a nice little spin to get the legs moving before things got underway. As soon as we got out of the city limits, the attacks came from the gun. Being that a lot of teams had full squads, the race was pretty controlled and nothing threatening went up the road.
We maintained a steady pace up the first climb and as we headed into the one category 1 climb, the pace had become infernal. I had a feeling things were going to split eventually but I was unsure when. As the climb began it was in a strong crosswind, as predicted a group was able to get a gap on the field. Unfortunately we missed it. I was happy to just make it over the top in the group, but Stefan was off the map and assembled after the climb pretty upset that he missed the move.
Being one of the only teams to not have a rider in the move, we spent most of the day at the front. I did as much work as possible, strung it out up one of the climbs and spent the next 10 minutes hanging on to the wheel infront of me, hoping to not pop.
Finally as we were coming close back into Bauge, we came through a chicane and hit one of the steepest climbs I have ridden a bike up. Thankfully it was only about 1.5km long, because there were riders getting shot all over the place. Personally, I was peeling out up some of steeper areas trying to be out of the saddle and keep weight towards the end of my rig was easier said than done.
I made it over, but the next 10 minutes we were single file. Coming into the city limits a rider about 5 places infront of me pulled the plug, leaving a huge gap in the crosswind. I did everything I could to close the gap, it just was not happening at that speed. I rode in the caravan to the local laps and called it a day. As the laps counted down, Stefan had a bit of bad luck with a touch of wheels. Thankfully he only had some minor scrapes.
Everyone was pretty heated after the race. When the team leader has a bad day it sort of trickles down on everyone else. I felt pretty bad for not being able to help more and explained my regrets and hoped it was enough.
After coming home, we heard that Sunday's race was a three hour or so drive, so the cars would be arriving at 10am. This did not give the most optimal time for making dinner, stretching, foam rolling, showering, getting ready and most importantly sleeping. Thankfully, I was able to get my list taken care of and get into bed before midnight.
In the car, we headed for our 3 hour jaunt. Our destination was Villaines la Juhel and as we got closer my nerves decided to turn things up to Mach One. We were definitely going to be in a very hilly region, there were going to be no flat sections of the race today. Also the weather was not our friend today, rain was coming down and it was a bit chilly. Today was going to be a race of the hard.
Before we started, Albert expressed his desire for me to race very aggressively today, so survival was not on the menu. I had not been this nervous before a race in a while.
After a wet warm up, the clouds parted for our depart and sun warmed things up for the first neutral kilometers. As we came from neutral, the attacks were more organized especially since it was more windy. I had a feeling things were going to be in pieces and I was not getting left behind. I hit it immediately. Making my way into the breakaway. We got organized, and had a great gap. I took my share of the work and shortly this attack became a field split.
Our group came to about 40 riders and about 4 climbs later, Stefan attacked creating a break of 5 up the road. This meant that our job became following wheels. For the next 30km, I felt great. Over every climb, I was feeling better and better. With about 10km to go to the long climb of the course the E.Leclerc team was assembled at the front because they missed the move. They worked on bringing things back and keeping it strung out. This shredded what was left of the group, bringing us to about 25 or so riders. Midway up the climb riders began to attack to try and get across to Stefan, I marked two attacks and did my best to hang on to the group, but completely blew up with 500m to the top.
I got the thumbs up from Albert as he passed in the caravan, so that was a plus. I was also gathered up by 3 riders from the E.Leclerc team. We rode together up the next two climbs, where they decided to pack it in at the top of the 2nd climb. This was not an option for me. As I descended on a road about as narrow as a bike path, I kept a steady pace and had a car come up and tell me a second group was about 2 minutes or so behind.
Figuring that the group would catch me sooner or later, I soft pedaled until the group was with me. One of my teammates was in the group as well. It was really the first time that I saw him all day. We hit two more categorized climbs before heading into the local laps. I knew that the rest of the day was about fitness and got on the front as much as possible. As things closed down, I was able to get 4th in the uphill sprint for our group and 14th for the day, surprising since a lot of riders had pulled out. Stefan sealed the win, and Kalvis took 4th. Overall as a team we nabbed 2nd in the team competition as well. It was a good day for Team Bigot.
After the 120km, I was a little rough for ware. I missed two feeds doing the whole race with one bottle. We also braved rain, a little snow at the top of the big climb and some dirt roads. It was definitely a good day for me personally, since I don't regard myself as a climber. Being able to ride in the group is great for me, being able to attack is even better. Thankfully next Saturday is something I am good at, CRITS!!! I am really looking forward to giving it full gas in my first European Criterium. This week is also a rest week too, after last week of nearly 400 miles of training the legs will enjoy shorter rides! Thanks for reading!
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