So, an “ERA” comes to an end this weekend, as our season ends too. Storm the Greens, our OVCX Finale, coincides with our KY State Championship, and happens to be the last CX race ever at our “epic” River Road C.C. course. Another friend of mine who knows nothing about exercise, let alone Cyclocross (but with a good point), called me out and laughed that 4 years could be considered an “era”, but I have to say I have some sadness in my heart knowing this is our last race at RRCC.
Sappy crap aside, let’s get down to racing. I’ve got a bit of a problem (hopefully not too big). Biggest race of the year coming up (double points) and I haven’t been doing anything remotely active since Storm the Greens when I hurt my shoulder (all better btw). I’ve raced twice (marginally) in the last 6 weeks, which essentially constitutes the only exercise I’ve bothered to do at all during this time. I’ve gained (as of this morning) 11 lbs. since the USGP, and I’ve watched my placement in the overall standings go from 5th to 10th, while the guys who keep racing just keep getting better and better. Just a lazy stretch caused by a small injury, a little burnout, the “busy season” at work, and Thanksgiving holiday. No big deal, but maybe poor timing. As I’ve mentioned, I think I’m going to plan some things differently next year (I keep saying that).
Regardless, now we come down to the KY State Championship. What’s going to happen? The nice thing is that although I’m in 10th place overall, I’m actually the top ranked Kentuckian at the moment. The top 9 guys are all from either OH or IN, so they can go ahead and kick my ass like they’ve been doing all year. I’m not going to beat them in the overall, and they don’t count toward the State crown when they beat me on Sunday. Actually, 3 of those 8 guys aren’t even able to race this week, so as silly as it is, I might pass one or two of them in the overall. I’ll lose at least one spot too, though, because the only reason I’m the top KY dog is that Trevor has only raced 6 races (versus my 7). After this weekend, regardless of the race results, he will pass me in the overall standings. He’s got some really high scores posted in some of the last few races. Additionally, I think there are a few others who could also pass me up, depending on what happens Sunday. So, I’ll still probably finish somewhere between 9th and 11th overall like I though. Who cares? That’s not the prize we’re going for on Sunday.
Overall results notwithstanding, it’s down to me, Brian, Trevor, and Pope (the only 4 KY guys in the race, I think) for the State Championship. Fun. It’s a fight for probably 7th or 8th in the race, but the glory and title of KY State Champ, nonetheless. I’m not really sure what’s going to happen, actually. I believe we’ve all beat one another at one point during the year, so I think we’re closely matched and it may just come down to who is feeling better and who’s peaking on Sunday. I’m probably not in my BEST form right now with the lack of working out, but then again, I’m actually rested. If I can keep the endurance up at all, that may play to my advantage if the others are tired. My handling skills might be rusty, though (they’ve been pretty shaky the past two races), I’m just not sure. The course will make a big difference too, I think. Fast, flat (roadie) course, I typically don’t hang so well. Slower, more technical, tougher course, I do better (but for the aforementioned lack of handling practice). I think it’s really anybody’s race, and I’m excited to see what happens. Hopefully Brian and I can help each other early, to get into a good spot in line, then, depending on which of us is feeling better and which likes the course better, I’d imagine one of us will be able to make a stronger move and push the pace. We’ll have to keep an eye on Pope and Trevor the whole time, too, to see what they are doing and hopefully keep up with them. With 4 of us racing, and 3 podium spots for the State Championship, there’s bound to be at least one Rogue jersey in the podium picture.
Lastly, I am not one to resort to tricks and tactics normally, but for this special occasion I think it’s proper. Now don’t go overboard, I’m not going to actually train or practice, or even get on my bike (or clean or tune it), and I’m not going to cancel my plans to go out with friends Friday and Saturday nights. But, in lieu of any of that stuff, I’m going to bring a good luck horseshoe [mustache]. Now, like most of my cycling related endeavors, it’s pretty half-assed, but I’m thinking with how closely matched we all are, I just need a little extra luck to push me over the top (and something to keep my face warmer).
After the races, there’s a big “farewell” party for RRCC with overall awards, a bonfire and CC’s BBQ. I’ve got a few 750ml bottles of some fun beers to share, and I’m sure Fatty will bring some treasures, so regardless of what happens it’s going to be fun.
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