Addison Oaks and Top 10 DFL signs

First few turns reminded me about the course and also why it is so important to pre-ride the course (which I didn’t).  I was hanging with the front guys, lost them half way through the first lap and then just blewup half way throughthe second lap.  I had a headache so bad that I was straining my eyes to focus on the down hills.  One of the guys in my group fell here and broke his helmet. He is okay, but a reminder as to why we wear helmets and why I needed to focus so intently on the course—nearly impossible with my head pounding.  I will save you the effort.  I finished 8/9 and the only guy I beat was in the med tent getting looked at with his broken helmet.

Top 10 Signs that You are finishing DFL (Dead Last) in your group (some of these I made up, some really happened to me today.)

1. The water hand up station is closed prior to your last lap.


2. When you finish, the photographers have already uploaded their pictures for purchase.


3. The results are posted before you finish (this actually happened today).


4. They ask you if anyone else is on the course when you finish.


5. The race organizers wonder how many course flags you picked up on your way in.


6. Neil  Sharphorne claps and says, “way to go old timer”!


7. The leaves have changed and they ask if you want a hunter's safety vest for your last lap.


8. Your Gel Shots shelf life expires while you are riding.


9. The team sponsors change during the race.


10. 10. The end of winter party starts just as you cross the finish line.

I hate Addison Oaks....maybe next year.