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I have been doing a lot of endurance rides to prepare for the entire season and I think that really helped at this race. I also drank a lot of water the day before and the morning of the race.

Did you achieve your goals for this race?

I would have liked to have done a little better overall but, I was using the race just for training.

Were you strong from start to finish?

I felt pretty strong during most of the race until the very end when I started to slow down a bit.

Did you change your race strategy after encountering the more difficult course this year?

I wasn't expecting such a challenging race. I knew the course was going to be different but I had no idea it was so much more difficult. So once I hit the course my main strategy was just to keep a steady pace and finish the race.

What was your favorite part of the course?

I loved Rattlesnake Ridge...the real technical section with the big slabs of rock.

When did you put the hammer down?

In the first and last few miles of the race.

Due to the heat and difficult course did you have any problems with cramping or dehydrating?

Thankfully I didn't have any problems with either. I carried enough water this year.(I finished a camelback and two bottles)

Did you have any unusual problems?

No, my bike was great and I had no technicals. So besides crashing a couple of times all was good.

How would you rate the course?

I really like the course. Although it's long and hard, it's really good endurance training.

Were you happy with the way the race was run?

I didn't really like how they staged the race this year. But, the results were quick. Overall I think they did a good job.

Is there anything you would like to add?

I'd like to thank my coach, Paulo Silva with RUFIT training and racing. I wouldn't be where I am without him. I'd also like to thank my team and my family for the support. And, thanks to Bill Deputy for such a great site!