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Photos by Jeff - of Jeff | Strava | Results | My CX History Flat course. Only moderately technical. Cold but not bitter. Brutal wind from the west. Big MacCross turnout--I won't list everyone here because I'd have to go and look it up. I got a strong start, then began my slow inexorable slide back toward my usual spot. Basically, the CX version of the Peter Principle. AlanG and I ended up duking it out for the duration. He passed me early-ish, I closed on him by the end of the sand, he powered away on the back stretch, I closed on him by the barriers, repeat five times. (Would have been six if we hadn't have gotten lapped.) Over the six laps, I passed Alan several times, usually only to be passed right back. On the second to last lap, he got away. Well, second on the MacGregors podium isn't too shabby. Then, on the front grass section at the beginning of the final lap, I'm approaching a turn and see him off his bike bashing on his handlebars. (I'd learn after the race that he'd gone down, most likely the victim of an unscrupulous competitor, twisting his bars and turning his shift/brake hoods in the process. SPECIAL SHOUT-OUT to STEVE THE BIKE GUY for helping Alan and then me with some primo field--literally--repairs after the race.) As I pass, I call out something like "you had me" or "tough break" or "ha ha ha sucker" (I can't remember which). Apparently, the bashing worked, though, as he was quickly back on and closing on me. I was first through the sand and first up the gravel back stretch. I reached the tree marking the top back of the course still ahead. Good sign, as I had previously gained on him on the gentle down grade, tight swoopy chicane, and barriers that led to the finish. Remounting after the barriers, I was still ahead, and from there, it was a few short turns for the "win." Great battle, Alan. Without the crash, I almost certainly wouldn't have come out ahead. And great first race (I'm pretty sure) for JakeI, DavidW, ChrisS, and PhilM! Tomorrow, Shedd Park and its better-suited (for me) terrain. |
DIEFFENBACH CROSS RESULTS 2015 RESULTS
*Metrics not included in running total; lesser of two races in a day excluded 2014 RESULTS
2013 RESULTS
2012 RESULTS
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