Cyclocross Nationals

KCCX finally gave me something to smile about this year. Goal set from 2007 cyclocross nationals: podium in U23 this next year. It was a goal I was unsure if was reachable. I felt it was. With the help of TJ and the support at LWC, we finally made it happen.

The weather was beautiful for the weekend. I went into it feeling good and confident. Although, the start line looked stacked and intimidating.

Going off the line I was 3rd into the wholeshot behind Sam Schneider. A position I could not believe I was holding. Soon, Ashley came around me and I was sitting comfortably in 5th. Just in contention for the podium.

After a crash in the first lap, Danielle Haulman, a former CX national champ passed around me and I was then in 6th. I quickly got up and stuck on her wheel. I made a pass before the lap point on the asphalt. She stuck on my wheel and I was unsure of if there was going to be any tactics I'd have to worry about. I slowly pulled away and I decided to hit every climb hard. As she dropped back I slowly closed in on 4th place Sam Schneider. The closest gap I had on her I think was about 20 seconds.

Unable to close the gap, I was able to finish with a strong lead and the final spot on the podium

Maybe I had a tear come to my eye as I crossed the finish line...Ashley finished 3rd so me and her stood next to eachother on the podium. A great day for both of us.

Bjorn was able to pull off a 5th place finish in his U23 race as well.

The collegiate race was a little more rough on me. Maybe I had spent myself in the race the day before, maybe it was the 20 degree temperature drop on the start line before we went off and my lack of wearing a base layer, it could have been a million things. Those girls are strong.

I think I finished 15th and mid pack. Ashley hit the podium for a second time.

After that it was all super fan business...

And celebrating the off season.

The team LWC took 3rd to Lees Mcrae and Fort Lewis.

I just want to thank everyone who has and continues to support me. Gear Grinder, Hyundai, Lindsey Wilson, the team, the staff, Josh Nagode who prepped me the entire weekend, my family, and furthermore, my coach TJ. He made it happen after I snapped my chain on the start line last year for U23 and I told him, "I'm going to get it next year."

Brookside Indiana Cyclocross

This weekend was a slightly impulsive trip for a final cyclocross race before nationals.Last one of the OVCX series. It was about 20 degrees and an icy course which led for great conditions.Me and Ashley decided to rock Filip's kits for his family, representing Brooklyn and Poland. We definitely fooled them by convincing everyone we were part of the Polish National Team. Surprise!It was an okay race. A good fast field for the women resulting in a little bit of pain.

I ended 7th with some motivation to push harder when I actually get to nationals. Cannot hold back like I do in these races. I finish them and have a good amount of breath left.

On the way back to campus definitely found some cheap gas. 1.39$$$. Sweet...

Race photos by Greg Sailor.

Storm the Greens Cyclocross

Well- I decided to head up to Louisville for the Kentucky State Championships this past weekend. Storm the Greens.

It was pretty great weather. about 6C outside, but warm enough for bare legs, some leg balm, and no gloves!

The race was a blast. I decided to rock a little old PC-Dub action as my jersey for today, and passed on some more PC-Dub and Gear Grinder onto the unattached (aka, kenda rider) Ashley.
We are just trying to enjoy our cross time here in the series before heading to nationals.

The race was highly uneventful for me. Chilled. Tried to catch a girl in front of me. No dice.

We were inverted teammates.

Next up, possibly a race in Indy. Either that or just nationals in about a week and a half!