While the TS-blue jerseys were rare, our group was still well represented. Lionel and Gavin (both in stealth mode) joined Joe and I (both in team colours) at the start. We shivered together waiting for the all clear signal (the race ended an hour ago and I only just stopped shaking - really).
In an effort to warm up, the B racers started fast. Joe spent the first few laps at or near the front while Gavin, Lionel and I were mid-pack. I think there were about 25 racers. We seemed to lose a few but at least 15 stayed together till the end. Joe went from the front to back rather quickly on about lap four but made another dash to the head of the group before the end. One racer pulled a ‘Bill’ and pushed to the front for the money shot. It didn’t go as planned – the pre-race hail had left the roads wet and dirty and he went down from the front of the peloton. It was in a corner and he slid unhurt out of almost everyone’s way. Yet again, wildlife added drama. One small deer in particular timed his crossing badly. Lots of braking but no crash. Casey Rider darted off the front on the climb with about 3 laps to go. I gave chase, but this wasn’t the time to make a run for it. We were well-marked.
The top ten, but not the top three. That’s where you want to be on the last lap and that’s where most of us were. The pace was fast and it was freezing, but when you find yourself in a good spot, you commit. Did you hear that? You commit! Sorry, I can’t help myself. I had to beat just one guy and there was a chance it would work out. Down the hill for the last time. Select a gear (big ring, middle of the rear cassette) that will allow you to hammer uphill all the way to the finish when the momentum from the descent begins to fade. It’s looking good.
How did I know he crashed unhurt you may ask? Same guy (a lap down) went to the front again on this final descent and then decided he was done midway up the hill. If you’ve selected a good gear for the sprint, then you’re not in a good gear for hitting the brakes half way up the hill. Game over, just like it was for Bill a few weeks ago. Good thing my jaw was frozen, I might have said something rude. I have to admit that laying blame for these things is inappropriate. It’s always the guy beside or in front that screws things up for you, but you have little idea of what caused his move. But I know who I’m avoiding in future.
From my position at the back I couldn’t see how anyone else did. The data will probably be posted soon – we get better race results reporting than most professional sports!
JT
Caleb Pike Race Report 22/4
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