Since this was my first attempt at a road race I was very cautious with the other riders not to get in their way. It was a nice and easy roll out for the first 8 miles and then the first hill climb split the group. Dustin fell back and I waited a bit and thought he would just catch up on the way back down the hill. After mile 10 it was a free for all and had no idea what I was doing. Every time I caught a group it would split on the hills and I would find myself all alone and was wishing for my aerobars. Dustin's wife was kind enough to hand me a bottle of water at the turn around and was very grateful since it was getting hot by then. The turnaround was fun since it was at the bottom of a 3 mile climb back out. I came up to Andy and we tried a small pace line with another rider and that worked ok until we got to a few more jumping in. I couldn't figure out how to stay put in the line since I am use to holding a specific power. So there I was by myself and figured I would finish the race this way. I didn't really have a goal for this race but learn something new and not do anything stupid. I averaged 300 watts on this course and that felt about right since I didn't have anything left at the end.

I am so impressed with those riders. After the race all I could do was try to figure out where my little training wheels would go. I can't wait to do more of these races and try not to feel so embarrassed. Learn group riding techniques and pacing strategies with a team.

Tossed the bike in the truck and headed back towards Starbucks for a refill.