It’s always a season highlight to come back to Wisconsin and race. The Subaru Cup is the best stop on the ProXCT circuit and I was really fired up to be racing on home turf. A week prior I had a great race at Afton Alps and won the Minnesota MTB series event there. Afton was a great ‘practice’ race for the Subaru Cup and I knew that was ready to have a strong race. Starting from the third row was sure to be a tough start. With not much trail between the start and the first singletrack things massively bottle-necked twice. The first time was just past the feedzone and then again just as we entered the ‘Nitro Amphitheater’. After eight seconds of standing in place (as recorded on the Garmin) at the top of the hill we were all strung out and going single file into the singletrack. From here the first lap went generally okay, but not great. In most races I’m able to keep consistent lap times going and improve position in the process. This time however, my laps only got slower and slower. It was one of those days were I couldn’t power up and over the steep climbs as I normally love to do. Frustrating yes, but the fans were awesome despite my lack of horsepower and willed me on to the finish. I had fun out there despite a 36th place which was far from what I hoped for. I know I’m ready to go, but was simply a little off out there…
Things came around for Sunday and I was pumped for the short track. It was another chance to test the legs and hopefully go a little faster. The legs felt the effects of a tough XC, but I knew well enough that soreness alone isn’t much of a valid indicator. During the race I felt good and was able to let it rip on the climbs in order to keep the speed up. The only problem was the start of the race and having to fight from the back of the field. Some riders were called up according to their XC finishes, but many of us were called to the line en mass (unexpectedly). I didn’t fair too well in this le mans style call up and the first several corners were very chaotic, but at least I kept things upright while passing guys. While 28th place isn’t ‘good’, I was encouraged with a little more speed and a bike setup that felt great on the course.
The short track was enough to be satisfied with knowing that I’ve got four consecutive weekends of racing coming up. Mont Sainte Anne and Windham World Cups will be followed by Nationals in Idaho and the ProXCT finals in Montana. This is certainly the biggest block of ‘big time’ races that I’ve ever done and I’m excited to let it rip. Two weeks in Wisconsin has been a great way to get in some rest and relaxation along with the finishing touches on the training. More to come from the races ahead!
A big thanks to all of those who cheered me on at the Subaru Cup and to WORS for making it all happen. It’s good to be home. -TJ