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The first race is done. Months of training. Months of worrying. Months of wondering. Done in just 1:59:58.

I finished like I thought I would, in last place. But I did finish. Within the first half-mile, before the race really started, I threw a chain. And there went, everyone. The wheel truck tried to get me back in it for a little bit, but it was too late. I happen warmed up enough either so I didn’t have the legs to chase the pack down.

But I stuck it out. Didn’t get lapped. And I finished before the Cat 1,2, and 3 guys got started. So it was the most successful failure I’ve had in a while.

My first race is 2 hours away. I have no idea what to expect. It’s a training race so I think it will be pretty laid back. At least that’s my hope. Right now I just want to get it done and behind me.

Kate’s great. She’s making a big deal about it. Hopefully, she won’t be disappointed.

My first race is only two weeks away and I’m getting nervous. I’ve been training hard. I really like the Sufferfest training program. I feel like I’ve made progress but it’s hard to tell since I haven’t ridden with other riders yet. I’m not really worried about losing, I’m more worried about crashing into someone else. I’m also worried about looking bad and not finishing.

I’ve registered for my first official race. The Frozen Waffle Road Race in Springfield, MO. I’m very nervous. I need to think of it as just another group ride. And I have to remember that Cat 5 is not about winning, it’s about learning to race. And it’s just a training race so there shouldn’t be that focused on winning. Looks like there aren’t even any prizes. I just need to get some of my 10 mass starts finishes done. Well, at least I’ll get to visit Springfield and eat some Imo’s pizza.

To begin my journey into racing, I need to get better, a lot better. I was wondering how I was going to do that. I’ve been riding on my own for 2-3 years now. I’ve seen gradual improvements. I’ve gone from averaging 12 mph to 15 mph. Last year I began cycling with a beginning group and I able to hang at a pace of 16-17 mph. But to race, I feel the need for some coaching. An actual plan.