Last year my friend traded me for coaching with a mountain bike. I never mountain biked much so I figured I would sign up for Lory Xterra, an event 20 minutes from my home in Lory State Park.  Ya know, commit to a race = motivation to prepare for it?

The season did not go as planned with mountain biking and swimming much. I only road the course once, 4 days before the race, and swam in Horsetooth Rez once this summer during the Horsetooth Tri Series I help coach/direct.

I was in the last wave because mylack of mountain biking skills trumped my swimming ability. I started in the middle of the small pack and just enjoyed the easy swim pace. Transitioning to the mountain bike was slow and controlled. I stopped numerous times for faster riders to pass me the first loop, then was on my own the second loop. I enjoyed the 12.5 mile ride without getting in anyones way and without getting hurt. Finally onto the run, I felt strong and comfortable ascending and descending Timber trail.

All in all is was a great first Xterra Experience.

I dont take up much space

Xterra Virgins, NOT ANYMORE!