It has been a number of years since I have 'destination raced' (travelling to a location specifically to race) yet it was something that used to be the norm. Hmm yes, week in week out and sometimes twice in one weekend! So, fair to say it was pretty exciting to be loading up the car last Saturday night, ready for the children and I to leap in Sunday morning. Amelia was quite excited about the 'fireworks' her light up shoes were making in the darkness as we drove to town to drop them off for the day. In total, I spent 5 1/2 hours in the car on Sunday and 1hr 40 racing but it was an awesome day out. This was just the second time I have ever visited the beautiful little spot that Raglan is and I was met with lovely people organising the event, and competing, and a fast, throat burner of a race with some beautiful views. It was also the first time in over 5 years that my legs have earned me money! Thank you Raglan Land Company for the cheques donated to male and female race winners.
The race itself? Around Mt Karioi (hang on a minute, not quite 'around', 1200m of vertical climbing on the way!) on gravel roads chasing boys and escaping girls, with some company here and there but largely a solo pursuit mission. One kind chap on a cyclocross machine sought to advise me to 'tempo the climbs'. I explained to him that was just not an option =) We were able to work together for a bit until sadly he fell victim to a puncture.
Coming across the airfield to the finish with another Rotorua racer Paul McDowell.
Mt Karioi is in the background.
After an orange at the finish line and a chat with the NZXC Racing Team I pretty much had to hop in the car and head for the hills to collect my wee tikes. Home James and we won't spare the horses!
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