U.S.G.P. #7/Portland, OR

Well, we had some great racing today in Portland for the 7th round of the U.S. Grand Prix of Cyclo-cross.
With temps warming up to about 40 degrees right before the race and the sun deciding to peak out, the muddy course began to thicken and get tacky and in some places very slippery and greasy. Unfortunately due to a last minute registration, I was called up to the line in 108th out of 120 riders. Not the way to get a good start, but hey, I was really only here to prepare for Nationals and have some fun. The start went off and 120 of us massed to the first mud section. Of course there was a crash, and I snuck up the left side in a clear line. Bam! I had just passed about 20 guys in 10 yards, that was cool. Then the legs were feeling good and I started to catch more. Another cluster of riders struggling up a steep slick run up, and leaving me an opening on the left inside line. I shouldered the bike and dug in. I give one "stiff arm" with my right hand going up and Bam! There were 10 more behind me. I continued to have great luck and good legs on a course that was about taking chances, and having good bike handling skills and good upper body strength. I had a great day, and worked from 108th place up to 20th! I think I could have gotten some more with a just a little more battle time. Wow, I would love to know what would have happened with a good second or even third row start position. My ride gave me a lot of confidense since alot of the National talent that will be in Bend next weekend for the Championships are also here testing the waters. Today was fun to say the least. Thanks DP for working the pits for me even though I never changed a bike. If anyone is interested I rode Challenge Grifo Tubulars with 28psi in front and about 32 in the rear. Beautiful traction! I never went down in the greasy conditions (but sure as hell came close a bunch).
Thanks also to Micah and Corrie for the use of their truck to pull around the True North OSV. We are lookin' good!
Kristi did a similar ride to me with a second to last row start position and worked all the way up to 16th place and rode beautifully. She beat most of the women that are top contenders for next weeks Masters National Championship. It's good for the confidense.
I look forward to letting you know how tomorrow goes here in Portland. They are possibly calling for snow! Bring it!

Thanks for reading.