Jesuit Round-up Road Race- Sunday, March 8

March 8 Road Race.

Through the evening myself (Jen Purcell) and about a dozen other riders in the time trial sent emails in protest to the promoter. Thankfully, by the morning I was listed in 2nd behind Mina. I'm still not sure about the time, I think I was under 31 minutes based on my watch, but they had me as 31+. I don't care, it was good enough to secure 1st in the omnium. I thank all of those who vouched for me, that was super sweet of every one! :)

The road race was a 46 mile circuit. There were big rollers although less wind. The women again were in the 40+ field, I hoped to get into a break so that I could get a good workout for Redlands Bicycle Classic. I almost secured a break with Kurt Bickle (Men's time trial winner) but didn't have enough recovery after bridging up solo to him and another rider. I had to sit up and get back into the field. There I stayed for all of the laps, trying to keep at the front and be ready for anything that went. I must say I was really tired though. By the last 2 laps I started to mentally prep for the inevitable field sprint. There were fewer women in this race but the ones that were there, weren't going anywhere. The sprint would be critical to positioning and timing. It wasn't going to be easy, but it never is so there's nothing new there! Also there was a Colavita woman who had all of the Colavita men helping her, she's brand new to racing but impressively strong and I was concerned about my buddy Ginny, she's got a strong jump and is riding really well. There was also another uphill finish and I wished I had a 25 on the cassette (as opposed to my 23). It was going to be close. As we approached the last 1K I was ready , I just tucked in behind a couple strong guys. Then I felt the moment and went with it. I almost won the field sprint, by less than half of a second. I did the it in my small chain ring again and, of course, wish now that I hadn't. The picture is posted on TXBRA's home screen. That was a huge surprise, seeing me go for it on TXBRA! Lesson learned: no more sprinting in the small ring.

At the end of it all, it was a great stage race put on by Dallas organizations and the towns of Denton and Aubry. I was pleased to win the omnium and this week received the Texas Cup Leaders jersey in the mail. So far this season has been full of surprises and promise. I can't wait to see what else is in store!