Jeff Cup '09 PreRace

Sunday, the queen of the Virginia classics, the JEFF Cup. I am excited for the race on Sunday. This is a race I have been training for since December. My goal is to race better than last year. I can't rely on a result, as there are way too many variables in a race like this.

Last year I came into the race in decent shape, with a lot of base miles, and some intensity. My race went fine until the last couple of miles, when my legs quit with cramps. I am not sure if it was from exhaustion or nutrition, but I am taking precautions this year.

This race has been a great catalyst for the beginning of the race season for me. In Janurary I started a much better nurtition plan, and I have dropped 24 lbs. I say nutrition plan, and not diet, because I plan to eat like this for a long while. I feel better, and have more energy. Also, I have been neglecting core strength over the years. As with most cyclists, we spend all of our time on the legs, and forget what the legs push againist. Through Cylco-club, I have been doing yoga and core routines 3-4 days a week. We will see if it tranlates to more power on the hills.

My goals for the race are to ride near the front, and safely as possible. Suffer less in the hills. If I have some left for the sprint, maybe a result. I only have one teammate, and the 123 other dudes that make this their biggest race as well. The Cat 4 rodeo is on.

See ya Sunday!