Just out of the money.

Kind of ashamed to say that I finally got my first cyclocross race in. But, either way I got the first one down. I picked up my Maxxis Raze tire last night, so of course, new gear always makes you wanna try it out. I was thankful, cause I really need the traction, that tire rocks, and didn't weigh me down at 315g. The course was a lot more interesting than I expected. It had hills, grass, gravel, mud corners, barriers, everything you need for a good cross race. Next time, I'll put a grippier tire in the front. But still, I was flyin down hills, baring down on anyone in front of me.

I started out super tentative, just getting used to what would happen. But after a lap got into a real groove. Just needed to convince myself to blast past some folks, cause I held my spot when I did. I finally caught up to what I thought was the 4th. I road his tail (a fellow cross-checker) for at least 3 laps. I didn't feel like out-sprinting him, some feeling of respect I guess for not going ahead of him. I probably should have, I was faster through most of the corners and even everywhere else. But he rode a good race. I maybe would have gone for it, to get 5th so I could have won my entry fee back ($20). Oh well.

The main reason I don't race is for the uber-uber competitiveness that some people often show. I had enough of that in high school, I just wanna have fun with biking. Even though I was keeping track of where I was, how I was doing, pushing hard, I am sure I had a smile on my face.

Thanks again to Paul and Christy. It was good to have folks I knew there, and the water at each lap was great.

I am finally getting closed to doing everything that's possible with that cross-check. I've got touring, single speed road and cross, monster cross, trans-iowa training, cross racing, commuting. It's a great steed. The weight over the barriers and on the run-ups wasn't too bad. I can't imagine I'd have as much fun with a less-lively alum or carbon ride.