26th
September
2011

The last cross-country race of the season, for me, was on Saturday. I had a great to not so great run up, feeling like I was getting some form back only to be hindered by a head cold that would not just ‘blow over’ as I hoped. There isn’t much of a report of the race from me, I simply went through the motions to finish 12th. That isn’t to say I didn’t enjoy it, it was just uneventful (I’m sure those further down the grid wish they could say the same!). Considering how I felt, I surpassed my expectations and had a good day riding my bike fast, rather than moping feeling sorry for me and my cold. I had targeted the race for a strong result but it was not to be. 

Looking back, the season has been the usual roller-coaster but perhaps, slightly less white knuckle. The main plan was to get a lot more racing in me which, along with working on technical and power on the flat, would give me more confidence riding at the top end of a National. Both flat power and the art of racing a mountain bike have seen big improvements, such that I can possibly stop considering myself as weak technically. I certainly got a lot more racing in; too much at one point with unplanned races cropping up here and there, but it worked well and I thoroughly enjoying racing the South-West series. It was good to achieve my goal of a top ten at Nat Champs and riding at the Olympic dress-rehearsal is a memory to cherish. 

Still big improvements to be made and I know how, so I can already look forward to 2012. For now I am going to take it easy throughout October, racing ‘cross and Bristol Oktoberfest. 

John.