La Charly

At the finish line

Its race day and we wait anxiously for the starter’s pistol to sound and get us on our way.  I have no idea how many cyclists there are – 700, 800, perhaps one thousand?  It really doesn’t matter, its just fun being here feeding off the energy.  Everybody seems to be huddled with members of their own club proudly sporting their multi-coloured club jerseys.   Back in January I joined Cavigal Cyclisme and while I decided to wear my new Charly B jersey, I too am huddled with many of the cycling friends who have welcomed and embraced me over the past months.

I stand chatting with Bruno who’s chomping at the bit and doesn’t conceal his objective.  Placing third last year was great but simply making it onto the podium won’t cut it this year.  Bruno wants to win!!  There is no money or other prizes but bragging rights are at stake.  As for me, I just want to complete the event and enjoy the day.  I have no idea how long it will take and set no expectations.  Unfortunately Eric injured himself 2 weeks ago and isn’t able to participate.   I will have to find others to pace myself with and share the work. 

Getting her hooked early

Having done harder rides during training, the ride itself isn’t so taxing with no climb exceeding 663 meters.  My biggest concern is staying on my saddle.  I've witnessed a few wipe-outs and having no experience riding in large packs I don’t enjoy being boxed-in by other riders.  It’s  not the climbs that I find difficult today but the descents.  I am terrified snaking down these hills, not knowing what’s coming around the corner.   One small mistake, a stone, pot-hole, sharp turn, a rider in front of me losing control and …..   No matter how fast I propel myself, I watch as dozens upon dozens of riders fly by me at frightening speeds.  On one straight-away where I could see a good distance ahead of me I decide to let go and hit a maximum speed of 64.8km/h before fear gets the better of me and I bring it down to the mid-50s.  I ask one cyclist later in the race what speed he peaked at and totally unfazed and nonchalantly responded 84km/h!!  Yikes!!  No thanks. 

At the start line

As I cross the finish line I am happy to be greeted by Nancy and Madeleine’s bright smiles.   Simona was home sick :(.  

Sure enough Bruno finished first in an incredible time of 2h 23’ 57” with an average speed of more than 35km/h.  Bravo Bruno!!   I was happy to finish in 2h 56’ 44” placing 120^th.

Sal

Crossing the finish line

At the finish line with Bruno