2011 cycling update

Many things have happened since my last post.  As a Cat3, I have won 1 race (my teammate, Johnny Mitchell,  controlled the race & then lead me out for a sprint finish).  Placed 2nd in another (there was 1 guy 10seconds off the front and I didn't have a teammate) and have have had several top 10 finishes.  I've begun to consistently place well, but as of today, only have 10points to go toward my Cat 2 upgrade.  As it stands now, I think my FTP is right around 4w/kg and my sprint power is still off the chain--but has come down.  I've given up some of the absolute top end to be able to finish the race and I'm happy with that.

I've met 2 of my short term goals for this year and I'm very happy with that.  There are only 2 races left for me this season so there is no way that I'll be able to get enough points to upgrade to a 2.  That's OK as it give me focus for next year.  I've gained valuable insight into racing, training and awesome friends.

My wife is pregnant and the baby is due March 13th, 2012.  With that, the cycling goals will go to the back burner.  I still plan on racing, but won't be as focused on it.  I would like to focus on sprint training when the velodrome opens up in Rock Hill next year, but I'll focus on the road until then.

Transpire

I've not posted in quite some time, but will try to do so more often. Training and racing have been going extremely well--much better than anticipated. With Robert assisting me, my winter training was tougher than it's ever been. The summer training hasn't been fun, but I know I'm in a better place now (physically) than I've ever been. To top that off, I've got a strong team around me. With Johnny Mitchell being a great all rounder setting a great start to the season, it helps to HTFU on the training/racing days when things are super-tough.

With the SC Crit Championships coming up in a few weeks, I'll race hard this weekend in Asheboro & Denton then begin to taper for a strong showing in Charleston.

As for goals, they are still the same. The reality is that through strong sprinting is how I'll get the points to be able to upgrade to Cat2. My fear is that if I upgrade, I still won't have the FTP to be able to content in that category. 1st things 1st though, I'll need to get the points, then worry about racing that category when I get there.

I'm really looking forward to the Velodrome opening up in Charlotte. Also looking forward to getting some time on the track this year before it opens.