An Old Post I Didn't Post

Off the front, laying it down in Evanston

NOTE: This entry was initially posted back in July but not to this blog. Here you now have my Evanston GP recap.

Superweek is a 21 day series of races that occurs every July in the Chicago and Milwaukee area. The racing is fast, hard, aggressive and incredibly exciting. The Evanston Grand Prix has been a part of the series for a few years now and has probably become my favorite event - a tight, technical .8mi hourglass shaped course in downtown Evanston, IL that suits me well. The crowd is always huge and the fan support is amazing.

Racing got underway a little late for our 35 lap race due to some strong thunderstorms that moved through the area earlier in the day. I knew the field was full of some quality sprinting horsepower so it was my plan to attack and hopefully get away with a small group. My first attack at 32 laps to go was hauled back in within a lap. When I was caught, I immediately counter-attacked my own move and was alone, off the front, for the remainder of the race. I caught and lapped the field!

A lot of things went through my mind as I fought fatigue and dehydration on a very hot day - this is insane! You're going to get caught! My legs hurt so terribly bad! I can't believe I did this to myself! As my gap grew and I settled into a sustainable pace things changed and my head came around to a more positive place. In the end, I allowed the peloton to roll away and contest the sprint for second place and I crossed the line alone, hands in the air, tears in my eyes. It was an amazing and wonderful feeling to work so incredibly hard and achieve something I've always wanted.

My ride is dedicated to my best friend and training partner who was nearly killed by a truck while training on his bike nearly seven weeks ago. He is my motivation, inspiration and reason for living. Mike - I love you with all my heart and I am here for you as you suffer, struggle and fight to regain your life. My mind was filled with thoughts of you as I suffered and dug deeply into that painful and uncertain place called 'off the front.' It's a place you introduced me to and you are there with me every time I visit. Thank you for being you - I am here for you, always.