MSC #3 Race Report: Cross Country (also MX and DH)

This is the second of two write-ups from Angel Fire. To read my report from the Super-D, click here.

The cross country course at Angel Fire has a well-deserved reputation of being exhausting. Each lap begins with 2000’ of climbing, which gets only more rocky and fatiguing as you climb, until the last rock garden has all but the elite few pushing their bikes up, utterly drained. The descent is no time for rest either. It is a test of mental acuity; How long can you stay focused while you non-stop drop the third of a vertical mile you just climbed?
I love Angel Fire....

Anyways, the twenty-six minute long Super-D the day previous definitely sapped some of my reserves, but I persevered through the first climb, saving a little on the first descent. On the second (and final) lap, I thought the climb would go a little easier, if for no other reason that my mind begins to numb to pain after an hour or so of racing. Not so. I was spent halfway up the climb, staying on out of stubbornness. As I pointed it downhill, I kept within my limits. Until I went under the lift. As I passed under the chairs full of downhillers, some of the world’s best heading up for their practice runs, I was inspired. I let go, I ripped down he hill, I pushed the corners and trusted in my bike and my skill. I crossed the line with a huge smile and a announced to the spectators, “That was FUN”. All told I got 10th place, while Jay Henry and the unstoppable Katie Compton took topped the men’s and women’s pro podiums.

Also decided on Sunday was our new Mountain Cross National Champion. I am bummed I wasn’t able to watch their races, but Melissa Buhl and Rich Houseman are looking pretty good in their Stars and Bars jerseys.