This week marked 18 months since my last trail race. At the time, I couldn't have imagined running to my demise or any of the shifts that have happened since that time. I was so engulfed in the moment and the excitement of big spring races that I lost focus with my body. Racing hard in North Carolina felt so good that I failed to rest before pushing forward towards Gorges 100k. Fast forward and I've sorted through it all. The period of rest that drives goal oriented folks nuts, wrestling unknown medical diagnoses, overcoming the depression associated with long-term injury, finding new friend circles outside of work, and recognizing the good in change.
Last weekend, all of those thoughts finally came full circle. I wasn't necessarily rested by any means, but I had a good race and more importantly had fun. Most if it was likely due to being mentally fresh and excited for the opportunity to have fun in a racing environment. Four laps of Elm Creek isn't the most stimulating so to speak, but it takes a unique mental focus that most races don't afford. Fast sections punctuated by extremely tight and twisty portions can really wear on you over 46 miles. As I assumed, the first two laps were fast and flawless and the last two were super focused on not making handling errors. Racing a hardtail beat me up a bit over time, but my laps remained consistently at 49 until cramps slowed me towards the end. By the end, finishing 4th, less than a minute from the podium in 3:20:XX was pleasing and a great way to get back into the swing of things.
By no means does cycling feel natural yet. I still get super nervous at each start. Mostly, I've had to work super hard on relaxing during the first lap which eases my lower back muscles and improves bike handling. As with anything new, confidence grows over time and it's important to keep a learning mindset throughout each race. Like any longer race, it's me against myself that really determines the outcome.
Top Things Learned:
Back to the MN Mountain Bike Series this weekend if it stops nailing rain. Though a lot of folks will be racing Lutsen 99er Saturday, I can't wait to head back to the Jail Trail up in Saint Cloud for 4 hours of racing. It's flowy, fast, and technical in areas which is always a treat!
Last weekend, all of those thoughts finally came full circle. I wasn't necessarily rested by any means, but I had a good race and more importantly had fun. Most if it was likely due to being mentally fresh and excited for the opportunity to have fun in a racing environment. Four laps of Elm Creek isn't the most stimulating so to speak, but it takes a unique mental focus that most races don't afford. Fast sections punctuated by extremely tight and twisty portions can really wear on you over 46 miles. As I assumed, the first two laps were fast and flawless and the last two were super focused on not making handling errors. Racing a hardtail beat me up a bit over time, but my laps remained consistently at 49 until cramps slowed me towards the end. By the end, finishing 4th, less than a minute from the podium in 3:20:XX was pleasing and a great way to get back into the swing of things.
By no means does cycling feel natural yet. I still get super nervous at each start. Mostly, I've had to work super hard on relaxing during the first lap which eases my lower back muscles and improves bike handling. As with anything new, confidence grows over time and it's important to keep a learning mindset throughout each race. Like any longer race, it's me against myself that really determines the outcome.
Top Things Learned:
- Everyone needs rest. It's easy to forget as an endurance athlete because we are so used to pushing through that next hill or overcoming our body's natural governor that says STOP! With rest comes adaptation, healing, and a decrease in injury however.
- Variety is the spice of life. Goals are great, but not at the expense of experiences. Whether it's simply enjoying other aspects of a race, a new trail, or a different hobby instead of training, it's all important to overall enjoyment (and balance). Fly fishing all day Saturday, returning near midnight, and then waking up and nailing a race reminded me of this. I literally spent all day on my feet doing something I love and STILL had a great race.
- Balance is Necessary. Life has many elements and most are more important than endurance pursuits. None of my exploits recapped here could ever replace the laughter or time with my kids.
- Nerves are fun! Dealing with new nervous energy and learning how to race a bike has been fun. Big races still scare the shit out of me, but that's why I know I'm doing something right. If you're not nervous before an event, your either not challenging yourself or not engaged enough.
- Community makes the difference. Meeting new people at these events are truly a highlight. I couldn't say the same about some things I've tried which is probably why they never stuck. The off-road community, whether it's cycling or running, is truly where it's at (at least I think so!).
Back to the MN Mountain Bike Series this weekend if it stops nailing rain. Though a lot of folks will be racing Lutsen 99er Saturday, I can't wait to head back to the Jail Trail up in Saint Cloud for 4 hours of racing. It's flowy, fast, and technical in areas which is always a treat!