DClog

GA CX State Championship

The cyclocross course in Augusta featured some fast pavement and power sections which I liked. Also there were a few twisty turns on a loose and sandy surface that I didn't like as well.

I missed my pedal at the start and Lamar took the hole shot, but a gamble on a loose inside line at the first barrier payed off and the lead was mine... for a few seconds. As we approached the tight corners Torre's superior handling abilities gave him the advantage and he took charge of the race. I had to sprint to close a gap after every turn but sucked wheel and recovered a bit on the pavement, meanwhile Torre's pace pulled us away from the chasers.

Exactly half way through the seven lap race Torre caught up to a group of three 35+ riders riding together. Sensing an opportunity, I made a move to get around the riders just before the turns (à la Gerard). Torre must have been delayed in traffic for a few seconds because a small gap opened. The pavement sections allowed me to use some time trial techniques and slightly increase the gap.

It looks like Torre is building up to a fantastic ride at nationals in December. Lamar has definitely turned up the heat this season along with Jim, Wojtek, Marshall, Stephen and Jay. The Masters 45+ racing is more competitive than ever and it was downright intense at the 2007 Georgia State Cyclocross Championship.

Torre Smitherman, Dan Coy and Lamar Mauney

Rachel and I had driven to Augusta through the night (Sat night/Sun morning) from Dothan AL where I had played into the wee hours (Central time) at a huge wedding reception for a socialite. Working and driving all night instead of sleeping is harder than it was when I was younger. There was no extra energy for a second race or even smiles, sorry.

Posted by dancoy at November 18, 2007 09:03 PM