Steven & I ,for a long time now, probably since the summer we were laughing about Cyclocross.
That after watching few races in Belgium along with few beers,decided to give it a try.
After, scavenging a couple of CX(it means cyclocross) bikes from a friend in my case, and Steven to super discounted bike, we decided to enter for the Central Cyclo Cross League held at the Milton Keynes Bowl.
The Pit Lane
Then last weekend,we travelled up to the Bowl.The day was cold,windy,rainy,muddy.Ideal condition for CX race.
We got there, and obviously we underestimated the event, considering that it was going to be easy,due to the track length.
We then climbed onto the saddles and did a warm up.Blimey, it was hard.We only did one lap as warm up. Yes correct,one lap equal of 2.5km which took us just over 10 minutes.Really slow comparing to road racing.I had also a little issue with my rear tyre,which was bald like my head.
Hence the swap rear tyre to the front.Giving me a no grip tyre at the front.
Anyway I did not care, because we were there for fun,and we entered in the novice men category.
Nice Clean Shoes
We lined up in the peloton.I usually start behind the posers at the front so I can chat with other riders,because at the front no one speaks.Steven & I discovered everybody else did already few races before that.Therefore they were not novice.
Anyhow, apart from the chewing the mud for the first 50 yards Steven & I decided to sprint to the front,and this move paid well. Crashing prevented us to win our first race,but we managed to get a good result instead, 4th(for me) and 5th(Steven).
Now CX, is the latest addiction to a lot of riders,but I would like to remind people to keep on carry on cycling not just because it is a fashion,but it is a true passion.
The atmosphere in CX is more relaxed,more family oriented and more naturalistic. With CX you will gain a lot of bike skills,therefore the combination of practice and will power will make you stronger. Running will be minimal if you are good with bike skills to avoid obstacles.
Mostly, it is softer to land if you crash.
Steven(blue kit of TCC),nicknamed the Old ... was crying like a baby,because he chewed some of my mud.
Until next time please enjoy your rides.Be careful on the road it is slippery.
SD.