Are we ready?

The first Ascent Cycling race is already looming in just a few days times. Time to strap on numbers and line up with friends who will be fierce rivals for the next 60 minutes. An hour of fun - an hour of suffering. Pinning it from the start and hoping to hold on for as long as possible - or until that sweet sound. A ringing bell signalling one to go.

It starts friendly enough. Collect number from Registration - get out and do a warm up and pre-ride on the course. Cheer on the other riders, making sure to stay out of the way. Hang out while trying to stay relaxed and loose - waiting for the call to the line. The instructions from the race officials, which we should listen too - but never do. And then the first whistle, releasing the first group onto the single track. Heart beating harder with every group that starts, heady with the anticipation of racing. Then its our turn. Charge away from the line with one thought - ride.

Ride hard, ride smart. It's only an hour - but how far can I dig in that hour? Just because it's short doesn't mean it's easy. Eyes on the lines, stamping out the rhythm. Breath - accelerate over the hill. Heart beats like thunder in my chest. Focus and stay relaxed. Smooth is fast - fast is smooth. And then sooner then I want, but so thankful to hear - finished until next time. 

I'm not sure I'm ready. But that doesn't matter - the season starts this Wednesday! Palmer Park - 4:00, 5:00 or 6:15 - It's time to race. Let's make this the best year every for the Ascent Cycling series and show up for some fun...