This past weekend I raced in my first NCC (National Criterium Calendar) crit in Washington D.C. at the Air Force Cycling Classic. While not all of the big Pro teams showed up, UHC, Astellas, Airgas, Champ-Sys, and Jamis were there among a couple other Pro teams and a slew of Amateur racers. Not having raced a Crit yet this year and coming off a busy month where I wasn't able to train as much as I'd like with school finishing up, graduation, and a move from Charlottesville it was sure to be interesting.
Clarendon Cup - 100km
I spent the first hour or more just trying to survive, sitting mid pack, and "hanging" out. It took a long time to figure out the tactics, how to move up, and relearn how to corner. It was ugly for sure, but I was able to get through a couple splits in the field and stay alive, all I could ask for. After a tough start the legs started feeling better and I was able to move up and actually be involved in the racing for the last 30-40 minutes. I missed the first break that lapped the field and was about to attack and test the legs when a teammate beat me to the point. Ben Frederick's move stuck and they were able to lap the field. Once he lapped up we protected him, mostly be riding behind and giving him plenty of space to pick his line and get through the course as easily as possible. He finished up in 9th while picking up the most aggressive rider jersey and I came to the line in 18th. A very good result for my first pro crit.
Crystal Cup - 120 minutes
After Saturday's Clarendon Cup I was much more comfortable and active early in the race on Sunday at Crystal CIty. The move went about halfway through when I was sitting back recovering. When I got back to the front of affairs I was able to initiated a second break with 30 laps to go and got away with another rider. Unfortunately 2 riders weren't staying away from the UHC train and we were brought back with 1.5 laps to go. I felt good and poised for another Top 20 finish but was taken out on the last corner. I crashed hard enough to throw my shoe off and crack my rear wheel but personally came up unscathed with just a little scrap on the elbow. Fortunate.
I had a day to sort things out and get packed as I headed out for Lake Tahoe, CA on Tuesday to get in some time at altitude before the USA Cycling Elite Road National Championships begin here. Look for updates from what should be a great trip with the Kelly Benefit Boys.
Keep those pedals spinning,
Bslow
I had a day to sort things out and get packed as I headed out for Lake Tahoe, CA on Tuesday to get in some time at altitude before the USA Cycling Elite Road National Championships begin here. Look for updates from what should be a great trip with the Kelly Benefit Boys.
Keep those pedals spinning,
Bslow