Cyclocross Nationals Bend, OR

The final cyclocross race of the season took place in frigid Bend, OR on December 10-14. I raced on the 10th at 8:30 in the morning. My race was the very first of many which was kind of nice, other than the 5 degree temperature that greeted me that morning. I'm not sure if the nerves running through my body were what kept me warm or not but I really didn't feel all that bad out there. Waiting for the race to start everyone around me was jumping up and down, waving their arms around in some sort of effort to stay warm but I just stood there, not trying to be tough or anything, but rather just was focused and ready to go. I tried not to put too much pressure on myself going into this race but of course wanted to do well. Arriving at the start line with 40 other racers got my nerves going a bit though.

Jenni braved the cold and the early morning start time and took me to the race, while everyone else stayed warm and toasty in their hotel room beds. (Good idea guys) I was thankful she came out though, it is always good to have someone yelling at you from the sidelines telling you your position in the race. I got a good starting positon, by luck of the draw, literally. They did call ups by random number drawing and if your last number in your race number matched what they called you were up. I was lucky enough to get second row and that translated into a good starting position. I got a little hung up on the first corner throwing me back into about 20th maybe. Over the course of the 45 minute race I worked my way back through some traffic and ended up tied for 10th at the finish line. Not a bad days work for my first National Championship race. It was a blast and I can't wait to go back next year. Enjoy the pictures.