Hello from my apartment in Missoula Montana. I just got done unpacking, took a long hot bath, and watched the Packers lose their football game. I just got back from Butte Montana where I attended the first cyclocross race in the MBRA (Montana Bicycle Racing Association) 2007 series.
I traveled to Butte this morning around 8 am and arrived to a brisk 34 degrees. The sun was out and the day looked to be beautiful. I must not be ready for the cold as I found it too cold for enjoyment.
The race was soon off and this year I decided to race in the main event group (Mens A,B,C). I started in last because I did not want to get in the way of any body in real contention. And off we were.
I was second to last and I enjoyed the large group as we strung out and attacked the first barriers. It was like poetry, kind of beautiful in a way. I decided as log as everyone stayed together i would follow. If someone attacked I would try to go with them.
The attack took place on a long stretch of grass just before a real rough downhill section. I tried my best to get by riders that may pose a threat to running into me if the downhill turned ugly.
Up the marvelous run up we went and I started to attack and pick people off. I did not want to lose sight of the main group.
As we entered a real rough field section someone did not like my progression through the field and as I passed on the inside he took me out. I tumbled and my bike flew into the air and landed in the middle of the course. Riders started to hit it and I rushed to get it out of the way. I had hurt my leg, I assumed the chase.
A couple laps later I lost sight of the group but I progressed through the pack and was still picking riders off. The field was around 18 strong so I had plenty to pick off. On the downhill my chain jumped over the chain guard and completely off the front rings and crank. I had to dismount and fix it.
I was passed by a strong rider. It took me a lap or so to chase this guy down but when I did it forced me to elevated my game. Then I dropped my chain into the chain keeper. I was quick to put it on.
I kept working my way up and took another spill, this time sliding across the grass as if I was in a football game and I just dove for a catch. I remounted and continued. With two laps to go John Curry lapped me. I hung my head, here we go again with getting lapped.
I decided to follow him to see how fast he was going. This elevated my game once more and I was able to overtake him and un-lap myself and get back on the lead lap. In the end there were only 5 of us left on the lead lap and that is very good news as far as my performance. I finished 5th, which is better than I expected. I finished with some fast guys. Here is the rundown.
- John Curry
- Jeff Proctor
- Frank Gonzalis
- Scott Herzig
- Me
Stay tuned and come back as I have planned some posts including photos from the MORS Awards and some season wrap ups. Take care and ride hard.
Boneshakerbike 
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