Coatesville Classic

After a three week hiatus from racing, I decided to make my return at the Coatesville Classic. After some interesting ups & downs in my life off the bike this past week I wasn't particularly excited to race a criterium in 90 degree heat, but once I rode around the course I instantly became eager for the start. Although I am a frequent adversary to crits, this course had a little bit of everything that makes a race awesome: smooth roads, straight power stretches, and tight, technical sections that demand good handling skills.
After a thorough warm-up in an attempt to snap my legs out of their fatigue-coma, I rolled up to the start grid. Anxious to begin the sufferfest, I was delayed to get on the line by the official in charge of roll-out who nearly caused me to miss the start. grr. Once the race had started it didn't take long for the first cat-5 crash o' the day! A gap opened up but I managed to sneak by and bridge back to the lead pack once the nerves had settled. Due to the twisty nature of the course, the race was riddled with quick accelerations and sprints. Unfortunately, my legs just were not willing to work with the rest of my body today. I managed to ride up front most of the time, but I was disappointed with my inability to attack or have a significant impact on the race. Despite the condition of my legs I managed to finish around 20th place, and I was satisfied with how I raced.

Some Highlights...
-Hitting my inside pedal in turn 6 on the bell lap and keeping it under control
-The cat 5 who thought it would be a good idea to come out of his pedal in turn 3 and lie on the pavement
-The red rear derailleur that ventured into my front wheel and got destroyed
-My cousin who managed to get to the race to watch with two laps to go!