On my fourth lap around the course today, I took the right hand turn back onto Toulette from Main Street and as I passed by the trail (which intersects the road) I looked to the left and saw none other than MY HUSBAND about to cross the road. What a coincidence! I did a quick u-turn in the middle of the road and called his name. He stopped, now on the other side of the road, looking a bit disoriented. I went over and gave him a big hug. He told me to get back out there in the race! I had been so conflicted this morning about whether I should just be on the trail waiting for him, taking some photos and videoing the momentous occasion, or whether I should do the race as planned. I decided to race, mainly because I didn't know how long it would take him anyway, and because I had been looking forward to giving this race a go for quite some time and it was my first opportunity to take part.
He was on my mind the whole time, especially because he had texted me shortly before the race saying he was feeling terrible and sick. Anyhow, it was so nice to see him! I knew he was okay and very close to finishing, so I could get back to the race and finish up my final laps. And my first race in my hometown was super fun! I think it was my favourite road race ever and I felt okay today - not super fast, but strong and healthy. The course was perfect - mostly flat with just a few punchy climbs. I LOVE doing loops and it's a good thing because I signed up for 6 of them. There were several other very strong women out today, which is always so good to see. Jenelle, the woman who won the 72km distance (there were only two of us, so I snatched up another 2nd place lol), was super strong and I hadn't noticed her get away with the bunch in the early part of the race. But it was still great - I rode with some new people, we tried to work together for some of it, which was nice. The weather was chilly at the start and I instantly regretted my short sleeves, but it soon warmed up and by the end the sun was out and it was a perfect day. The volunteers and town staff were out helping to stop traffic and keep us safe, and I honestly felt so safe and protected. Cars were very respectful, slowing to 30kph or less as they passed. There was cheering all around the roundabout as I went around for the last time on Hardy Avenue, and it just felt like a really cool community vibe. Thanks to everyone who organized this race. It's a gem! I'm not sure I want to tell too many people about it, though, as I really enjoyed how small and unassuming it felt. What a day to be on the bike! Congrats to everyone!! Let's try to fill the women's podiums next year! Times for women's 75km (it said 72km but they LIED!): Jenelle Grandy - 1st place 2:23:47.9 Jenn Wicks - 2nd place 2:29:35.9 Comments are closed.
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