WORS #10 Treadfest - mtbVegan

WORS #10 Treadfest Sunday September 13, 2009
by: Regina Campbell

Saturday I was a bit lazy in the morning, which is good, and eventually made my way down to preride the Lake Geneva course. I had already been there to ride twice the week prior, but might as well get in another ride to make sure I knew the layout well. That and I’ve been a bit panicked about the rock garden since my crash monday. While out on my first lap I found there was a work around for the rock garden…but it turns out that was just for the trail runners…darnit, it’ll be covered up for my race. Oh well, either I needed to ride it well or run it on race day.

On Sunday I was up early eating breakfast….oatmeal made with soymilk, topped off with peanut butter, dried blueberries, and brown sugar. Awesome breakfast…also with a nice cup of coffee. Made it to the race course early to watch the Citzen race and also the start of the Sport race. It was great getting to watch some of the riders and helped calm my nervous about the rock garden.

I got warmed up on the airport runway and headed to the start line. I was feeling good and just looking forward to racing and having a good time. I was lined up next to MurphyKate and she was a little worried since she hasn’t been riding as much after starting college. I kept telling her not to worry since she’s a strong rider and just awesome. Don said “Goooo” and we were off. I felt good off the start and was sitting in a good position. Made some passes on the climbs and headed into the singletrack behind MK. We came to the rock garden and I was nervous, kept repeating to myself to ride smooth, focus ahead of me for the clean line, and if I crash I’ll just run it the rest of the laps. I think I could hear my heart beating in my head. I heard the crowds cheering people in front of me then calling my name as I headed into the rock garden. I just kept my focus on the clean line and the next thing you know, I made it! I couldn’t help but smile because of it.

I spent lap 1 through 3 going back and forth with MK. I was just happy to be riding with her since I think she’s an incredible rider. It was fun being out there with her. I was able to get by her as we were heading into lap 4 and spent that lap with Claire. I had a great lap with Claire, one minor biff in a dry dusty corner and she got by, I was never too far back from her but couldn’t manage to close the gap. I had an awesome time racing.

I managed to clear the rock garden on each lap, which put a huge smile on my face every time, and I felt strong the whole race. I had a blast on this course, it’s exactly what I love…climbing, technical singletrack, and just loads of fun. I managed to come in 9th out of 20 and 6th out of 13 for my age group. It was a fantastic day. Thanks to Danielle for the bottle hand ups, Russell (aka roomie) for telling me to go up the hill faster, and everyone else who was out there cheering! Now, time to go find some pictures!