A Season's Objectives

At work when I start to procrastinate or can't seem to remain focused, I start a task list to keep me on track and getting things done. I tried to fight the list gene as a kid, but have seen the err of my ways later in life. Thanks for the list gene, Dad! How does keeping lists at work relate to bike racing? Well, the last few years I've talked about some season goals, but never put pen to paper (or electronic ink to screen) so there was nothing holding me accountable. This year, I'm going to apply my work strategy to the bike race season by posting my goals here, so they are staring me in the face. No excuses or backing out now:

1. Two top-5's at NMBS Series Events. The AZ NOVA Stage Race will be the first test and its a race I have won in the past. The two CA stops on the Series also offer good opportunities for me to do well.


2. On a Podium Step (i.e. Top 3) at the National Championships at Mount Snow in July. My favorite race of all time and the site of my first NORBA race back in 1994. The plan is for things to come full circle and it to be my final race as an expert.


3. Upgrade to Semi-Pro. I already have sufficient race results to upgrade, but I want to leave the expert class with some consistent placings before taking the plunge into the minor-leagues of professional mountain bike racing and staking claim to the back of the pack.

Now, I have to put my head down and work harder than I have ever before. Pushing out extra V02 max intervals, more reps in the gym, and treating every workout as if it will make the difference between going fast and being pack fodder. I'm dialing in my power to weight-ratio and when at race weight I hope to be cranking out between 4.4 and 4.6 watts/kg at threshold. Also, I plan on shaving some weight from the race rigs by making a few strategic part changes to ensure I'm not carrying a single extra gram on the trail.

A post with no photos is boring, so another goal this year is to take more pictures around the country at the many different race venues. I'll leave you with a shot of me at Mt. Snow in 2005 charging on the downhill.

Blue Star