as the day began we thought we had a good idea of what we were gettin ourselves into. We had seen the 1 mile gravel pass on youtube ( http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UNA7zV0mhQk) and we thought it wouldn’t be that bad. We discussed racing and tactics on the way down and what some would call strategy. But then, it actually started!

the race began with a neutral start–which is great because it allows you to ride a few minutes before the hammer drops–but also nerve racking because you know this race is about to take off. You have to do everything you can to hang on to the pack.

Well, the race started and i was dropped soon after. Have you ever rode 27 miles by yourself? with headwind gusts of 30mph? 3 one mile passes over a gravel farm road???? I would highly recomend it!!

Although at the time all this was taking place i wanted to throw my bike a la David Millar it turned out to be an absolute blast…. to complete the brutal course was an accomplishment for the day, and i was okay with that for the moment.

Vernon hills next is week, i need to start finishing with the pack instead of a being a monkey off the back.

thanks to the town of leland and the flatlandia cycling team for the great race.

“shake and bake”
Andrew