Yesterday I entered the First Annual Hollister Hills Mtn Bike Race and placed first of 3 finishers in the Men's 40+ age bracket, Sport class 20 miles(4 laps). My time was officially 2:47 including a wrong turn (add 5 min.) and a wipe out. There were about 25 racers overall in that class who started, all ages combined. I think only 10 finished. Winning time was 2:25 in Sport Class. It was an intense course. 1200 feet of climbing, each of 4 laps (ouch!). And one very tricky technical descent (rain washed out rain gully with deep crevices, potential ouch!). That was probably the longest 20 miles I've ever ridden on a mtn bike, but the most rewarding in the end. I was a little disheartened to see the low turn-out of riders and no one from SLO Nexus at the race. I was surprised as it was a beautiful day, perfect conditions after our last rain, and no other events slated for the this weekend. Oh, well. I will not easily forget my first mtn bike race. I may be able to make the Cyclebration today after church and a ride. We'll see. Thanks. John |