nothing like a road race

Someday, if we're all lucky, mountainbike races will get the coverage the roadies get. Currently the Tour of Ireland is going on. Today was a lovely summers day on the emerald isle. The field was wearing arm warmers and rain kit. Grass was growing up the center of the roads which are no bigger than most of our driveways. ~100 riders flying up a narrow road at 30 mph makes for good racing. It's better when Phil Liggett says near the end of the stage "the sun is virtually out" as a dozen or so riders have crashed from the slick road conditions. Later a team director who had at least 3 of his 8 riders crash today gave the best quote. "a few of our boys crashed, but they'll be racing hard tomorrow. They're not made of chocolate."

As an added inspiration to me, Malcom Elliot had a great day finishing 13th on the day. Not bad for a 47 year old Pro.

Images from the weekend.

The Interstate was almost moving past the Dells.
A sweet belt driven Spot at The Route in River Falls.
Sport SS start.
Oh sure, Jesse's happy before the race. If'n you look close you'll see a 700x45 tubular on his back up bike on the roof of his car. I can smell tubular glue at 100 meters. It's a gift.
The MFD stopped in da hood and let the kids climb all over the engine. Seph tried the driver's seat on for size.