Tuesday, July 3, 2012

Fast and Serious.



MSC #2, Chili Challenge, took place in Angel Fire, NM.  First real mountain race for me (big climb up and long descend down)  My plan: drive there fast, pre-ride the course, eat, sleep, RACE!!  Ahhh (serious) and drive home fast again.  Everything went as planed.  I didn't get lost driving there (I always get lost) so I'm more happy about this then anything! 

The race took off at 8am.  Usually its divided into categories and we take off in 2 minute heats.  Not this race, pro men, pro women and all CAT 1's took off together.  SURPRISE.  The start loop was a bit chaotic, but I liked the rush.  Hitting the single track, I got on Nina Baum's wheel.  The climb begins.  Lots of switch backs.  Nina pulled away, as hard as I tried to not let that happen.  The descend was smooth and so fun!  I had to complete 3 laps.  First lap was good, sometimes running into traffic, but stayed motivated.  My second lap was a bit difficult.  I kept thinking 'how am I going to do this a third time??'  Trying to stay focused, my third lap ended up being over a minute faster!!  

After the three laps, I took 2nd, about 4 minutes behind Nina!  So stoked and keeps me motivated! 

Next race is just a  half hour up the road (guaranteed not to get lost driving here!) in Crested Butte.  We will be riding some classic trails, one including Dear Creek!

by Amy Beisel

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