2013 McLaren Short Track Challenge - September 7th 2013
San Francisco, CA
A little back story to how I entered this race. I haven't mountain biked in at least 20 years, but after watching the recap of Aaron Johnson's epic race across Colorado last month it definitely piqued my interest again.
After mentioning the idea to my parents, it just so happened that one of my friends dad's was trying to get rid of his 1996 Trek 9700 SHX. After doing a little research online I found out that this was one of the first full carbon fiber mountain bikes ever made, and with some TLC and a bit of money, it could be built up into a unique and surprisingly capable lightweight 26er.
I spent about 3 weeks building it up, and it came out perfect.
After mentioning the idea to my parents, it just so happened that one of my friends dad's was trying to get rid of his 1996 Trek 9700 SHX. After doing a little research online I found out that this was one of the first full carbon fiber mountain bikes ever made, and with some TLC and a bit of money, it could be built up into a unique and surprisingly capable lightweight 26er.
I spent about 3 weeks building it up, and it came out perfect.
After about 5 rides, Nate somehow convinced me I should race McLaren Short Track Challenge. Whats the worst that could happen right?
This was definitely the most un-prepared I have ever felt for a race. After doing the warm up lap I almost thought about bailing. Most of the course was alright, but once we got to the "advanced" part of the course I almost shit my pants. I was not expecting stairs, 10+% grade switchbacks w/ sharp 180 degree turns, or little bridges that were so narrow you would scrape your handlbebars going through them. Props to Nate & Ryan that claimed this was all "easy" and that I should calm down.
Once the race started things did get a bit easier though. I played follow the leader and stole other peoples lines through the technical stuff, and used my fitness to pass people on the non-technical parts. I was gassed after two laps, but ended up finishing 15th out of 60, which was WAY better than I thought I was going to do. To be honest at the end I just felt lucky I didn't kill myself on the stairs, and it was a bit of a wakeup call that I need to get in better shape for cylcocross season. I better stop skipping those Wednesday lunchtime rides @ Arastradero.
Congrats to Nate and Ryan for kicking ass, and to Alicia who got a podium finish in the women's beginner category.
Mens Sport 19-35
Lap1: 14:16
Lap2: 13:41
Lap3: 14:36
Lap4: 14:19
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Total: 56:54 (15/60)
