30 intermediate racers lined up for 5 laps of Providence Farm. The race started on the driveway into the farm, a slight uphill sprint followed by a sharp left and right turns and then into the forest, twist around some trees, out of the forest, along a gravel road, 3 short but steep singetrack climbs, old dirt road descent, back into the forest, twist around some trees, over a log and then into a field. Twist around the field, over three barriers and the lap is complete.
I had a race strategy - I bit slower off of the start. No stupid mistakes in the first lap. Due to my series standing I got the 2nd callup. I took a position that would put me on the outside going into the first turn. I resisted going for the holeshot and settled in about 4th or 5th position going into the first turn. Matt Dilay got by me going into the first forested section. Going into the climbs it was a parade, not room to pass. I finished the first lap fairly uneventfully. I gained one position when Kevin Knock tried to bunny hop the barriers and went down losing his chain. For the next few laps Guy Gensey and I had a back and forth battle. I'd pass him at the top of the climb or in the trees, he'd get it back in the descent. I finally made it stick and started chasing down Matt. I caught him with two laps to go as we neared the finish line, it was announced we were battling for 3rd. I stuck with him on the climb, and when he rested at the top I sprinted around him. I pushed hard for the finial lap and half, never opening much of a gap. He finished 6 seconds behind me. I finished 44seconds behind 2nd, and 1:36 behind first.
3rd, my best finish in a cyclocross race. I was very happy with my race as I rode very well technically. No major mistakes. A few dabs, but I kept it rubber side down.
Gavin also raced, he was stung by a wasp on the first lap. Chris George wanted the 22 minute beer prime so badly he waited just before the finish line for a 90 seconds. Other familiar faces including Katie, Jen, Ian and Rita also raced.
Unfortunately, nobody raced in lederhosen.
in the beginners women category. Unfortunately, it will be my last win (at least for a while) as I'll be moving up to open women for the next race 
! It was nice while it lasted.
