Posted by Dan on 15. March 2010 20:17
In stark contrast to last year's event, the 2010 Dismal Dash Time Trial was almost pleasant. I'd give it a full 'pleasant' and perhaps 'cheerful' if it didn't end with fits of coughing and scattered vomiting. Kale Running reported the temp to be 51 with SSW winds ranging from 6 to 20 mph (mostly 6 though). Much better than last year's miserably cold and wet conditions.
Representing Celerity Cycling p/b Fitness Together was me (and the cough), Steve Knott and Frank. Frank and I would compete in the Cat 4 group and Steve the 50+. After a semi-decent warm-up and a mad dash for the head, I made it to the line with literally 15 seconds to spare, not realizing I was in my little ring (a 42T, but still little). On go, it took me a while to convince the reluctant front derailleur to cooperate, but I did make it into the big ring and settled in for the ensuing pain. Aside from some confusion at the turn-around point, where four course marshals seemed to be directing me much deeper into the turn than was necessary, it was a fairly good ride. Afterward, I let my lower respiratory system punish me with some pretty decent coughing. No vomiting, but it was close.
And the results were:
Dan - 1:00:08.60 (3rd)
Frank - 1:08:20.25 (22nd Eddy Merckx-style)
Steve - 1:18:20.50 (19th)
Plan for Conquer the Canal is to leave the decidedly un-aero URI at home. Lots of event pictures will be uploaded to Need to Bike's photostream.