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I did my normal thing, got to the race early and tried to be prepared. I also tried to eat right, but it was tough. I was real nervous, being that this was my first big race as a senior expert.

Did you achieve your goals for this race?

You better believe it! Before the race I said to myself "ride your own race" and I did, but I totally didn't expect to do so good. Specially considering that I was on a bike that I had never ridden, because Vicious Cycles gave me my frame at the race, so I had to borrow the Cannondale from my friend Nate.

Were you strong from start to finish?

No, not at all! I thought I was going to die on the first two laps. I just wanted to puke so bad, but I told myself to hang in their. I'm glad I did because the third and fourth laps I felt great. The third had to be the best out of all them, I was hauling! At finish when I sprinted for line, to get fifth, I felt so strong, but I was still amazed that I had so much left for the sprint. It was definitely a good day.

Don Morrison and Wissahickon Cyclery did a great job putting together this race and we thank them for their efforts. Was there anything that you observed that could be done better as the series progresses?

I guess the timing was all messed up. The organizers did a good job solving it, but some of the riders didn't, I won't mention any names. I hope their are no hard feelings.

When did you put the hammer down?

Third lap! I felt so good, everything was just clicking. I was in the zone, for sure.

If you ran into these exact trail conditions again, would you do anything differently?

Yeah, have a Vicious Cycles Metal Guru with some mud tires, and not to forget a towel!

Did you have any unusual problems?

Other than the fact of never riding the bike before the race, and feeling horrible the first two laps. I had no problems.

How would you rate the course?

Great, loved it! Specially the creek crossing with all the people watching. That really pumped me up, each lap.

Were you happy with the way the race was run?

Yes, very!

If you could do the race again - would you do anything differently?

Yeah, have my Vicious Cycles Metal Guru!

Is there anything you would like to add?

I hope their are no hard feelings between racers and the timing. It was a hard race to time, and I think everyone did the best they could. I can understand being a little upset about the mix up. No hard feelings! Plus, I would like to thank my girlfriend Manda. She is the best!