November 19, 2006
Hendersonville NC Cyclocross Sunday
The race course had a little something for everyone, but it was somewhat slippery and required the correct tire selection and air pressure to really go fast. I had warmed-up on the course and was not feeling too bad. But shortly before we were called to the staging area, my chain and/or derailleurs began malfunctioning, so I made a last minute decision to ride my spare bike.
The 45+ field was strong and the start was fast and furious. I had made it onto the wheel of Randy Shields, the undisputed top Masters 45+ cyclocross dude in the SE region. We had a gap on the rest of the field as we left the pavement and went into the grass. I noticed right away that my bike was not gripping the ground well, and when we came to a high-speed off-camber turn my tires completely let go and I slid across the course.
In my haste to get to the start line on the alternate bike I forgot to check the tire pressure and it was way too much for the conditions.
By the time I got rolling again about half of the pack had passed. The fall had knocked me out of contention and the lack of traction continued to slow me down in the corners. I eventually finished in ninth place not far behind Torre.
Racing will continue in two weeks when the Georgia Cross series resumes with the GA State Championship in Macon.
