Cyclocross Colorado State Championships

The last 2 races before this one, I crashed a few times which really blew my focus. But those were also a blessing, since I could use the emotion from “missing out” to get fired up and be really hungry for a win at the state championships. I had to fight my way back from starting mid pack around 40th.

I learned a while back from talking with Travis Brown, about the huge value of creating a routine before races. It creates focus, reduces stress, removes the mental blocks and frustrations, allows the flow state, etc. All I can say, is that if you’re interested in raising the bar in racing or any intense activity, develop your own flavor of routine, or ritual. It sets the stage for your best performance.

I’m a die hard believer in the mind-body and it’s my mission to understand and use the best of the best. The higher the stakes the more focused I become, and this one was no different. I visualized it, and scripted it in my mind. I could see myself throughout the race, how I wanted to feel, what I was saying to myself, how I would look for opportunities and take advantage of it, etc. It payed huge dividends for me by being able to be spot-on with handling through the muddy conditions and dodge a couple of key crashes and bottlenecks.
-Awesome Book! Working Out, Working Within – Jerry Lynch

On a funny note, I tried out a wacky idea of spraying cooking oil (PAM spray) on my cleats. Hah! I had a horrible time last week with my SPD and not being able to click in from all the mud. I didn’t expect it to make any difference, but it actually did work! I had almost no problems clipping.

Major props to the crew at Alpha Bicycle Co. for flawless bike performance throughout the season especially through the mud and snow last Saturday. I’ve thrashed both my Maverick MTB and my G&T Cyclocross bike and they have always come through for me! Thanks guys!

I’m definitely looking forward to moving up next year and to face the next level and some phenomenal athletes!