The National cross country series (ProXCT/USCup) opened with Mellow Johnny's Classic in Dripping Springs, TX on Saturday March 1st. With temperatures nearing 80° the heat was the primary challenge since most of the pro riders (including me) live in the mountains. The course was in perfect condition as it had rained earlier in the week. I had a 12th place call up based on UCI points (we had a large international field there!). The start was chaotic as usual with a three rider crash just a few hundred feet into the race that I was able to get around. I picked my way through the field, negotiating around riders each of the 4 laps, until
I finished in 9th place. I was the 4th US rider to cross the finish line. The first race is always a shock to the system, but I feel like I handled it well! There were crowds all around the course cheering and the entire event was broadcast live on
YouTube. My
Jamis Dakar XCR team was the perfect choice for the course as it was clearly a full suspension course. My
Geax Saguros handled the sharp rocks, dry conditions and the one stream crossing seamlessly!
