Adult Cycling League Finals

Tonight were the Alkek Velodrome "Adult Cycling League Finals." Anyone who took the velodrome's adult track cycling class over the past few months was invited to come and compete. I was one of 3 women, and there were about 5 men, but we all raced together. It was a good group, really friendly, and we were all just out there to have a good time (and get a decent workout...). We had 3 races: 5-lap scratch, unknown distance, and 12-lap scratch.

The 5-lap scratch race started off with a neutral lap, and I was reminded that people who just took the class and haven't raced much don't understand the logistics of a neutral lap. We finally got everyone to get more or less into a group, Cindy blew the whistle, and we were racing! But...it...was...slow...especially compared to the Juniors! With the Juniors, at my Friday Night Races, they jump right when they whistle blows, but this group didn't seem to see a reason. So I went along with it for a while, and we took a few turns pulling, and it finally started to speed up. When we came through turn 4 for the final lap, I got boxed out, and Darren (a major sprinter) whizzed by me. I ended up 3rd or 4th, I think.

Next was the unknown distance, and the start went the same way -- no one really felt the need to act like we were racing. So after a few short laps, I decided to try to make it interesting, and broke away. My attempt worked, but I knew if I tried to keep it going, I'd run out of fuel before they rang the bell, and end up last (or nearly). There was already a chase group of 3 forming, so I waited for them, and we shuffled around up and down the track until the bell rang signaling the last lap. I jumped on it, and managed to hold the lead all through the finish!

The 12-lap scratch race was last, and I knew that if I played it right, I could probably win. (With the 5-lap, I think I knew the sprinters would eke me out, but on the longer races, I figured I had a few racing tactics and endurance on my side.) I took it easy for a while, keeping a good paceline, but also staying alert for any guys who thought they could break away. I kept to the outside for a while, and sure enough, with about 3 laps to go, one guy took off (Logan?), and I jumped on his wheel. He thought he was on his own, and he pulled me around for about 3/4 of a lap, and I didn't let him draft me too much once he pulled off. A few other riders caught up with us, and we were in a tight group for a lap or so, and as we came into turn 3 on the bell lap, another guy tried to break away. I was on the outside, so at a distinct disadvantage as we went around the turn, but I stuck with him, and as we pulled out of turn 4, I was gaining on him. I won the race by about half a wheel.

It was a fun night, and I got to stand on the top of the podium, even though it was essentially meaningless (I did get a nice framed certificate). I like racing against people who are more at my level, but it doesn't push me as hard as racing with the Juniors. I'm looking forward to Friday night!