Squawker Redemption!

Yesterday was the conclusion of the Squawker Classic. It is an awesome circuit race that consists of 6.5 miles with 650 feet of climbing per lap. I think just about everyone who raced had a great time. There were a ton of fans out there beating drums, screaming, and one dude was wearing a cape with some super short running shorts and no shirt. There were writings of encouragement all over the road. It was a great event and the team is incredible this year. We just need to iron out some things and we will be all set for nationals.
FLC was on the attack from the start. Chris Kuhl and Lee Rosenthal attacked from the start and got an awesome gap. I waited until the climb and bridged up solo with Johnny Hayes right behind. We quickly got rid of the dead weight in the group, a CSU guy. Soon it was the Fort Lewis Train at the front of the pack. We drilled it for four laps and got caught halfway into the 5th lap. I didn't even look to see who was in the group and attacked as soon as they caught us. It wasn't expected and soon I had a good gap. I held onto the attack solo for 4.5 laps. I felt better every lap up the climb, but they would gain on me every descent because the wind was fierce. On the last lap I had about 30 seconds on the chasers and cruised up the climb. I was a little worried about getting caught on the climb so I saved some energy in case I needed to sprint. I even threw up an arm and pumped the fist, first time I think I have ever celebrated. I was excited! Check out the article in the paper at the Durango Herald. There is even a good photo of the FLC Train climbing front hill. I will have some more photos as soon as my slacker brother stops putting it on the pedestal and emails them to me!
It felt good to redeem myself for dropping out of the race the previous year. It was also good to see that the climbing legs are coming back on, just in time for the Gila. I think I will try to get some more climbing in this week in the passes. Skipping the Tuesday Worlds double valley for some climbing. Thanks to everyone out there on the course cheering us on. It feels good to be a part of a tight cycling community and an awesome college team. I think this is the best team ever. The girls are even crushing it! Good sign of things to come next month in Kansas. We will find out soon enough! I am heading to Grand Junction this week for some more collegiate race action.