Thanks to Tom Gaier and his team of volunteers for putting on an excellent edition of the Pre-Fat race. He’s got an amazing race going on in Seeley and this year more people than ever before turned out to experience it first hand. I was able to successfully defend my ’08 win after battling all day long with Jeff Hall. Last year I rode in solo, so to have it come to a sprint was awesome. Nervous, but awesome.
Shortly after the race and a whirlwind of unpacking, packing and bike washing I was en route to Green Bay in Muraski’s big rig. Four and a half hours in a vehicle is great recovery right? At least I was fortunate enough to lounge in the back seat while Mark crushed the drive, nearly doing in one shot with only a dinner stop along the way. With some nice Adeventure212 accommodations and a good nights sleep it was game time for the 11:30 wors start.
Fifth place on the day was alright considering the circumstances. I was comfy for the first 2.5 of 3 laps and really it was only the last 20-30 minutes where it was crunch time for our lead group of seven. Brian and Jesse got off the front while I got caught out with Mark and Chris. With heavy legs, a too narrow finish chute, and lap traffic in the way I sat up to roll across while Chris and Mark did the sprint for third. It was close between those of us in the front group and I’m confident with how things are shaping up for the rest of the month.
At just 16 days away Chequamegon will be here before we know it. And for those of you that need to know, Miss Pronouncer can help you. Next up is Maplelag – one my favorite race weekends of the year. See you there, -TJ