May 2, 2004 - INTERVIEW
Name: Tony Baldo
City: Wilkes Barre
State/Province: PA
Country: USA
Age: 33
Place: 1st
Category: Expert
Class or Age Group: Senior II, 30-34
Team: Upstate Velo-Sicklers
Race Bike: Cannondale Scalpel 4000
Tires: Hutchinson Mosquito Tubeless
Conditions: Mild with a breeze, slick trails
Email: aebjmb@adelphia.net
How was your fitness level going into this race?
Pretty good. I am happy with how I feel at this point in the season. I
would like to be riding a little stronger, but I have been recovering very
well after each race.
Were you happy with your position going into the
singletrack?
I went out a little harder than usual and was able to be in the lead going
into the singletrack. I was surprised, but happy.
Were you strong
from start to finish?
I was consistent. Jason (Newcome) was on my wheel for a better part of
the race and this forced me to keep the pace up. We were able to open
on a small gap early on the rest of our class. That was enough to keep us
1-2 at the end.
When did you put the hammer down?
I am usually content with sitting in the pack during the start of a race.
Today I felt like I could go a little harder so I did. Jason followed
to keep the pressure on and after lap 1 I settled into a steady, comfortable
pace.
Did you have any unusual problems?
Not really.
Were you happy with the way the race was run?
The course was very nice and the weather cooperated. I think the Sport
class soaked up most of the water, thanks!
Did you have any interesting
experiences during your race (exchanges with competitors/spectators)?
No.
Anything you would like to add?
Thanks to the race directors, promoters and the Dupont family for a great
race. Also, thanks to my mentor Kevin, my wife for supporting me, Sickler
bikes and my wrench man Yusef for keeping my steed running so well.