Since I joined a race team this year, I figured I'd better at least do one race! That race was yesterday, up in Breckenridge, CO, and it is called the Firecracker 50.
Basically 50 miles of mountain biking, all above 9,500 feet altitude, and with a combined total elevation gain of 6,329 feet! Whew!
And of course my ego would only allow me to race in the Pro field, which meant I was practically coughing up blood and dirt for five hours...
There were 11 women registered for the pro race, but I only counted 8 on the start line. They all dropped me in the first 10 minutes of the race, which was humbling. I struggled on, and toward the end of the first lap (2-25 mile laps) I was able to pass 2 girls. Feeling stronger on the 2nd lap, I held what little lead I had and hung on for 6th place.
I finished in 5 hours, 11 minutes, and 54 seconds. Ouch! My lap times were only 3 minutes apart, so at least I was consistent ;)
When you haven't raced for over 2 years, it's hard to remember just how much it hurts! My new hero is the female pro winner, who took 60 minutes off my time! One hour faster-completely crazy and impressive!
The race was very well organized, extrememly well marked, and the aid stations were fantastic. Thanks to Honey Stinger for not only fueling me, but for supporting the whole race!
Now I am recovering, trying in vain to loosen my stiff back and arms. Funny thing, my arms never used to cramp when I raced road bikes...!
Thanks to my wonderful teammate, Erin, who raced it as a 2-woman team, and who stuck around to watch me finish! It was so wonderful to see her smiling face at the finish line :)
