Last weekend I made a pilgrimage of shorts to the mid atlantic states of our nation, and some would say finally becoming a “man”. The ‘cross crew of the dirty, dirty south consisting of Noah, Jacob, and Tim picked me up in Rocktown Friday. There was talk about reliving the magic of December 2008, but I had my doubts. I showed the noobs the ropes of the pro tour lifestyle; we went for a small little ride in which I was dropped; and then we were off to the District.
We cruised downtown Georgetown, and I was surprised how much wankery was going on. Tim, the obvious tourist of the group, hanging out of the window took some great pictures. We made it to Ryan Bodge’s abode, who would be our host for the weekend. We caught up, and then went to bed.
Next morning after paying $5.00 for an egg and cheese sandwich (crazy, right?), we drove an excruciating distance to get to the first ’cross race of the season…Nittany Lion Cross. I raced. I had a good time, and worked through the 75 person field to 9th place in the “B” race…whateves. Noah broke a spoke. Tim rolled his tire. And, Jacob just straight up got lapped. The crew quickly figured out that there was no southern hospitality in UCI races. So after a somewhat disappointing showing, with tails between our legs, we cruised back to DC.
We retold Bodge our journey, and then went out to play some billiards. After our less than luster performance, and recalling the most boring movie in all of cycling, 9 Ball Diaries, we figured…”Heck, if Tim Johnson plays pool; so, will we, and the watts will be more plentiful and our bike handling skills will also improve (just like TJ, right?). Well, we played pool in a somewhat “fancy” establishment. In our jhorts, bathing suit bottoms, and tank tops we stood out amongst the black dresses, designer collar shirts, and snake skin shoes, RIP. After seeing Jacob have his share of $5 Tecates, we headed to an interesting bar called “Bad Boys”, and then at Z Burger.
Bored yet?
Next morning we made our way to Durid Park for Charm City Cross. I had 15 minutes to get ready. I quickly got my number, and pinned it on upside down in JV Squad fashion. I rode the first couple of turns of the course. I had the honnor to start in the very last row, where’s the series call-up love? With an empty stomach, it’s 12pm and I haven’t eaten anything since the Z burger I had at 1:30am, I worked through 109 people for a 16th place finish in the “B” race. I’m happy with my ride…it’s only Septemeber and last time I checked all the championships are in November and December. Noah and Tim had a good ride in the UCI race, and Jacob did something for 50 minutes.
Saturday I’m going to travel to the magical world of Davis, WV for the revenge of the Rattlesnake. I’m trying to figure out if I want to ride with one gear or 27 gears. It’s going to be wet and muddy.
In honor of “Bad Boys” this will be a picture free post. Plus everyone who takes pictures at ‘cross races wants $$$…gotta make a living somehow.