One mother of a warm-up

Note to self - must improve one's time management skills.

Second note to self - a certain Scandinavian chap is simply directionless without his beloved Garmin!

So we left Pentagon Row just after 10am already late for Tradezone. We then ended up completely lost in a part of town that obviously sees alot more police cars than cyclists. With the clock ticking down all-to-rapidly to 11:45am, we clearly needed to hussle. Somehow we made it with about ten minutes to spare and with a warm up that had turned into an all-out two-man time trial, hardly ideal preparation for the A race.

This was my first Tradezone of the year and was admittedly being approached with some trepidation. I got off to a less than impressive start - first corner of first lap and a rear flat. I'd be lying if part of me actually was somewhat cowardly relieved and at least now had a decent excuse for any poor showing. Step forward the ever-dependable Ms. Wehlberg and a replacement rear wheel. Damn it woman! That meant I had to continue. Perhaps I could get another flat later on.

A three-man break consisting of Ramon, Evan and Dave Fuentes was off and running, out of sight for all intents and purposes. Fortunately, DC Velo had the good sense to organise the chase with support from a few of us, including myself, from NCVC. With five to go it was finally brought back but that was clearly an admirable effort by the three to stay out there for that long.

After the race, there was simply no way I was going to ride home on two wheels so a lift was begged for and gratefully received.

It was a good race and nice to be reacquainted with some old faces. I have a funny feeling this is going to be a long season for me so perhaps it might be good idea to drive to the course next time.

Got my big meeting tomorrow morning so fingers crossed they're stupid enough to hire me.