Well, it’s been a while since I last blogged. You can still follow me on Facebook and Twitter for current updates. I’ve been busy doing some fun stuff. Let me catch you all up.
Tour of California- February
The Tour of California was insanely awesome. I had the opportunity to work at the Giant Booth and in The Rabobank VIP tent during the last four stages. There were so many people there it was crazy. It was so nice to see so many spectators at a US cycling event. The route and expos were jam packed with people. It was really exciting to see Lance, Levi, Floyd & Rabobank (Giant’s the bike sponsor) ride in SoCal. I can’t wait for next year. Rumor has it that the tour is moving to May.
Lots of traveling- March
March was a traveling month for me. I got to go up north to Reno to see family that I haven’t seen in a while. My cousin Ryan got married in Japan last year to an amazing young woman named Naiko. We all loved her and glad that she is now part of our family. It was the first time nearly all my generation was together. The only one missing was by beloved sister. I also traveled to Keystone, CO during their biggest snow storm of the year and then to Tucson, AZ both being business trips.
Sea Otter-April
Sea Otter was a blast this year. It was only my second time attending this event, but it left another lasting impression. I got to hang out with some friends from Arizona & Reno and watch my cousin Jon race Down Hill. Saw Kelli Emmett and Carl Decker out on course during two of their races. So needless to say, I caught Sea Otter racing fever. Next year I am thinking of competing in the Super D.
Cruisn the Conejo-May
This is by far one of my favorite rides (the other is Solvang Prelude) and it occurs where I usually ride. I was determined to do the century (6,000 feet of climbing) this year, since this is where I believe I first injured my knee two years ago. I didn’t have a lot of time to train, but I knew I had to do it. The morning was nice and overcast—perfect climbing weather. I left and road nice and easy. I was able to conquer a bulk of the climbing before the sun burned off all the fog and clouds. At mile 46 mile body began to question why I was doing this crazy ride, but after some food a chat with a couple fellow Conejo Valley Cyclists (CVCers) I was off and riding. I was feeling great. I finished the ride to the delight of still seeing the Giant booth and people at the finish line eating lunch. I even got to see my friend Beth at the last rest stop. She always makes me laugh and smile. I felt real good that day, and even felt that I could have continued riding.
VeloBetty Clinic- May
The following week after Cruisn the Conejo, I had the opportunity to participate in a VeloBetty clinic lead by Olympic Silver Medalist Mari Holden and Masters World Champion in Track, Road and Mountain, Lisa Jennings. The clinic was held in Ventura on Saturday and Ojai on Sunday. We had such a good time and learned a lot. A few of the Breakaway Cycling ladies were able to participate in the clinic as well. I can’t wait to attend another VeloBetty clinic. I highly recommend it. The go over techniques that aren’t really covered in a lot of clinics I’ve attended like, cornering, bike handling, etc.
