TOUR OF WINGHAVEN

Here I am just after crossing the finish line behind a teammate. I'm spent!

This race is probably the race I look forward to more than any other during the season. The course is a 3 mile circuit with 2 European style roundabouts and an uphill sprint finish. Last year I took 2nd in the cat 4 event and I hoped to do well again this year.

The day of the race it was hot and humid. I would have drank 3 bottles during the race but I managed to drop a full bottle right in the middle of the peloton. Luckily it didn’t create and problems. After attempting several breakaways, I decided to save my energy for a sprint finish. After coming through the last turn I followed the attack of the leader and found myself in 2nd with 50 meters to go. Suddenly, almost out of nowhere, my teammate Gabe flew around me to nab 2nd. I settled for 3rd, $300, and 4 upgrade points.

Not a bad day. Even better, on the podium I received my bronze medal, a bottle of wine from a local winery, and a kiss on the cheek from a cute podium girl.

I love the Tour of Winghaven. Major props go out to Big Shark Bicycle Company, the city of O’Fallon, and all the volunteers that make this event one of the best in Missouri!