Xterra Richmond 2009
June 16th, 2009 by Dan Hugo
Xterra Atlantic Cup
800m swim, 25km mtb, 10km train run
5th
1:57:27, 2m30 behind winner Conrad Stoltz
“Daas hy. Net betyds.” A Stoltz quirk meaning ‘just in time’ to the multiple minute delay to the planned driveway reverse. But then the delay was expected, and factored into the morning’s schedule across to the city centre for my second race in Richmond. Rendezvous 5 for the cup series of 2009.
The current flow was mellowed compared to mid week but still pushy enough to have some sport race entrants swimming almost stationary in trying to cross the main current. Extra water which could have meant a solid swim for the first in ages here in Richmond. Instead our already short swim was further shortened down to 800m, of which the major portion was with current flow. It meant for narrow margins through transition one, all making for an exciting as race. I watched, as the 3min to go call was made, Stoltz, lying on the river side getting a foot wrapped in what looked like glad wrap… It was to be the story of the day. Although the current was more than playable, it made buoy scouting and line picking critical and more fun than usual.
Craig Evans and Seth Wealing made some time, 20sec, by T1. As I pulled out to leave, I saw Stoltz on the ground, being tended to. I did a 33sec transition, and Stoltz a 46sec transition. Remarkable doctor I’d say, one that clearly understands racing… Stoltz was rocking and soon passed me, before we caught Craig held up by a sport racer. This was one of the unfortunate race calls of the day - the earlier start time. We get so abusive at the innocent riders - neither fair to them nor us. I wish Xterra would take a serious look at the issue, and realise what a racing detriment and safety risk it is. As the trail opened, so did Conrad’s throttle. I chased but could not match the fire power.
I loved the Forest Hill section (map above). I’d see a rider, check to see who was behind me, and it would Conrad ahead. Its such a confusing maize of great trail, with bridges, concrete strips, radical gradients, rooted switchbacks. A combination of technical climbing and descending like few trails can match. I was loosing time to Stoltz and Josiah (now just a switch back behind), but held considerably better than last year compared to Stoltz. My bike and tires were awesome. But I think I am still fighting on race day more than flowing. Josiah eventually closed the gap as we ran up the four flights of stairs a second time. Once settled behind him, I seemed to relax and become more fluid. I think I need to race more mountain bike events to try specifically get comfortable with maxed efforts on technical terrain.
Josiah and I came into T2 (very much Josiah then me, as he lead the whole way) 1′15 down. I was pleased to have a back that held out, but the lack of running this past week, the last few weeks, and the year since Feb really, just wont do when its this tight. The top six was ultimately spread by 2′30.
Stoltz had a very bloodied shoe by the end of the run - I wonder how much blood he lost during the swim and ride that the running shoe - designed by him - did not show. Either way, I am again amazed by my friends’ temperament and motivation.
I would really really like to win here some day. Its such a great setting and a great course. And I will.
A view from the podium.
Many thank Spike, Garret and Alan for the fabulous time at your homestay.
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