Last year we really lucked out and had temps somewhere in
the 40’s. Unfortunately, that luck did not continue this year and it was around
10 degrees during our race! I made sure to layer up, wearing two pairs of
tights, a dri fit, and thermal top under my skinsuit. I also put on a fleece
lined jersey over top and wore neoprene shoe covers, hat, neck gator, and swix ski
gloves. My mobility wasn’t that great, but hey, at least I was warm…kind of.
The officials all bundled up! Photo by Natalie Rekemeyer |
I had just a mediocre start, having trouble getting clipped
in, but kept with the group up the start/finish climb and to the first set of
barriers. I remounted on my bike and was promptly cut off by another racer who
had a bad remount and jutted diagonally across the course and directly in front
of me. I had to stop to prevent from running into her or being run into the
tape. I fell behind the group and was immediately kicking myself for not having
a better start and avoiding this mishap.
I stayed the same distance behind the main group (Robin and
Brittany had broken ahead quickly) until I ate it going over the barriers (3rd
lap?), tripping and landing on my knees. I really am the picture of grace
sometimes ;) I dropped a little further behind the group but tried to keep up a
decent pace.
Thank you Natalie Rekemeyer for braving the cold to take photos! |
With about a lap and a half left the sun went away and I got
really cold. I was very much motived
to kick it in gear so I could finish and get back in the warm building!! As
soon as I crossed the line, I turned and went directly to the building, no need
for a cool down, ha!
I finally got my toes and fingers thawed out and went back
out into the cold for the podiums. The Iowa City Cycling Club ladies had a
great race!
Iowa Championship Medals:
Brittany McConnell – 1st (Cat 2.)
Brittany McConnell – 1st (Cat 2.)
Robin Williams – 2nd (Cat 2.)
Vanessa Curtis – 1st (Cat. 3)
Alijah Beatty – 3rd (Cat. 3)
Emily Robnett – 4th (Cat. 3)
Cara Hamann 5th (Cat. 3)