The season opener for most of the area's cyclocross racers is on Saturday. I can tell because people are calling the shop and asking for things in semi-frantic tones. That's always the first clue it's going to be a big day — no matter the discipline.
As for me, I'm going to check out my spare wheels — otherwise known as Chris' wheels — tonight to make sure they'll fit with my brake setup. And if they don't fit, I'll figure out what needs to happen to make them fit. Juuuuust in case.
I've also debated cleaning the bike. Race-day rules say you want to have your stuff dialed and looking sharp. Cross rules say ... eh, whatever. Maybe I'll do it if I have time.
For many racers — judging from the last night's comments, at least — the biggest preparation was asking each other which race they were doing. Most of the riders at the weekly 'cross practices at Cat. 3 or better, which means a pair of races are available to them: the Cat. 3 race, but also the Cat. 1/2/3 race.
Some are strong enough to be competitive in the 1/2/3 race (Lucas, Brady) and some are not (me). While I'm certain watching the field roll away from me in the 1/2/3 race would be entertaining, I'll probably just stick with the 3s race both days. It'll provide more than enough of a challenge, I'm sure.
And what of the rest of the schedule? I'd like to race at least two or three more times after this weekend. Norfolk, maybe? I'll be in Des Moines while the Oakley Nightcap races are going, so I may bring my bike. Lincoln for a mid-week race? Maybe.
What I do know, though, is that the carriage turns back into a pumpkin on the last week of October. After that, nobody's going anywhere. It's Stegosaurus time.
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