I placed 3rd which earned me some decent points so far...I hope to do better in the next few races to break atop the points leader. It will be hard but I think I can do it. If I were to tie I would loose due to the fact that he finished ahead of me in one of the races already.
As for the race...it was probably the toughest XTERRA I have done. Not sure how it compared to Worlds but at least I don't think it would take as long. It all started with the swim. I was right with the lead pack to the first buoy and then fell into my routine rhythm of being slow...something happened but I think it was the two previous weekends catching up to me. Once on the bike I felt strong the first 3 laps and then when I ran out of Roctane GU I slowly diminished. I had them taped on my stem, and through a rough section of the bike I lost one. I should have just stopped to get it but was worried about time. Needless to say, it would have been worth it. Once on the run I was plagued with cramps in my hamstrings. It was all I could do just to shuffle my feet back and forth. I had to walk all the inclines because of my hamstrings. I took in as much at the aid stations as I could but I think it was too late. My foot (previously injure from XTERRA Muleshoe) was destroyed, bruised, and swollen couldn't take it any longer. When I crossed the finish, I didn't care about the results because of my personal performance. When I had heard how I did, I was surprised. I know in my best condition I could have done that race in just over 5 hrs. Next year, I will be back to prove it. 2nd place could have been mine, and since I wanted to try a 70.3 the weekend prior, I guess that's what I get. Regardless, there is a big race right around the corner and as long as my foot heals...I'm ready!
RESULTS
Swim: 0:31:29
Bike: 3:31:35
Run: 1:58:18
Finish: 6:01:22
70.3 Lonestar
What can I say, it was worth the effort and the fact that I finished in the top 28% on my first shot...I am stoked. I know I can do better at this distance and will be back for more. I like the course and will probably be back in the future...as long as its not the weekend before the EPIC again:) Soooo, I will probably do another one. Personal opinion...there are too many people at these events and too many people that shouldn't do them. I am also proud to say that I am glad XTERRA is too hard for the quality of racers I saw competing at this event. XTERRA is a lot more exciting too. I want to give a shout out to MERCURY BIKES! The ride was phenomenal! Its the fasted tri bike Ive ever ridden, and I look forward to racing on it again this summer.
Thanks to all of my other sponsors out there! GU! If I didn't have this stuff I don't know what Id do...its the best! Thanks Mercury, for the sickest bike! 661, for some sweet gear! Rudy Project for the most technically cool and most aero gear!GOPRO for the baddest sports camera!ODI for the best custom grips!Brave Soldier...for keeping me fresh:)! Thanks everyone!
I'm off to have some good beer, and enjoy the next 3 weeks of training before the big race.
