A few hours ago I returned from U.S. Nationals in Bend, Oregon. I was the 3rd to start in my category and passed my one, two and three minute man before the half way mark. The course was a 12 km out and back TT that started out as a straight-away at the start that turned into a quick 8-10% climb right out of the gate after 50 to 100 yards (estimate).

After the quick climb at the start of the course it flatted out for a brief sprint followed by a long, slow climb throughout most of the remaining course (until the turn around).

Following is a map of the layout and terrain-change of the TT course: map.

I was supposed to ride the 12k route but instead (like the idiot I am) only rode to the 10k marker and then turned around. Although I can say that the course was poorly marked, I arrived 36 hours later than scheduled because of airline delays and rerouting and, therefore, not having a chance to pre-ride the course, there were cones used for turn-arounds strewn about multiple locations of the course and many of the judges had absolutely no idea what was going on, the only person I can really blame for this incident is myself.

My time per kilometer, according to the head coach of U.S. Para-Cycling, Mr. Craig Griffin, (had I been assigned to the 10k course and not the 12k that I was assigned), would have placed me not only in the top 10 but would have allowed to medal and would have put me in Gold, as well. Sadly, my mistake disqualified me. Meaning, I will not be attending Worlds this year.

They are going to be held in Turin, Italy in mid-October this year. Granted, I’m working on finishing my degree this year (finally, some might say) and because of that would, possibly, have to skip Worlds; however, those are all excuses to make me feel better and give a reason to my failure instead of taking the blame that I am due. My own mis-steps lead to my downfall.

1. Brian Klepper says:

   August 11, 2009 at 7:09 pm

   Hey Alex good to see you have a new blog! I like it – Thanks for the heads up on your nationals
2. Adrian Taylor says:

   February 21, 2010 at 12:36 pm

   I am not going to be original this time, so all I am going to say that your blog rocks, sad that I don’t have suck a writing skills