Cat’s Hill Pro 1/2 Report
Posted on May 4th, 2009
admin
From the desk of AG:
Image copyright Velodramatic.com / Michael Robertson,
Massive Start List of 100 riders
Mates: Carmi, Jan, Angelo, and myself
Place: Aaron 10th; Carmi/Jan strong pack finish; Angelo DNP
Cat’s Hill is a race that demands a lot of respect. Virtually everyone that is showing up is on top form in early May and all are motivated to make a mark from last years race. The town, crowds, level of riders and pressure that we hide well - as we pressure on ourselves on our bodies and mind. However, the only reason we’re all out there is that 22% climb that makes the race what it has become - CAT’S HILL. The sheer crazy of going up that hill repetitively is not only torture and sadomasochist, but also can be fun at the same time. People screaming, drinking, partying, dogs barking over and over again. The pain is worth all of that – what a greatly supported race and cool little town of Los Gatos.
I felt good during the week leading up to Cat’s Hill (much thanks to Yoga) and our overarching plan was nothing more to hang on. Sounds simple – but physically demanding.
Cat’s Hill brings out some of the top Pro riders and experienced 1/2 riders that all have massive strength and bike handling abilities. To be in the company of these guys is very respectable and earns one some street cred. Knowing that I’m in company of Pro’s, Webcor, Cal Gaint and many more to mention is almost scary, the race was going to be very very painful. I’m still working on the confidence, lately my results aren’t giving me that extra boost that I need. Until today! Today I felt we rode well and I’m very happy with my performance as the race went 95% perfect for me and almost everything clicked into place.
Most of the race was fast and fierce with some crashes near the rear of the race (hope all are ok). I managed to keep clear of all the stacks and stayed near the front for the entire race. I knew my legs were filling ok as I would hit the climb around 15th-20th place or so and make up some spots here and there. Coming into the last 8 laps, I only saw about about 50 plus guys left in the race. With 5 to go there was a pretty nasty stack 25 meters coming into the climb. So the only safe thing to do for the down riders and everyone else was to neutralize the field.
After about 20 minutes of trying to keep our legs warm and talking about the last 70 minutes of a godspeed war to one another – they lined us up again. 5 to go – 5 to go! Most of us were done and just wanted to pack up home.
With 5 laps left in the race the head count of beasts were around 40 or so guys. That goes to show you that even the best have off days. The first lap up the hill was complete hell, lucky not only for myself, but I heard moans coming from the entire field. Lap 2 of 5 to to was a bit easier and not as shocking on the sticks.
The final laps I tried my hardest to maintain a steady up front position. Trying not to let anyone come around you is so hard and INTENSE. The bell lap was fast and the last final punch of a climb was like time standing still (not) only to be over in 30 seconds. I came around the final corner with some speed and ended up passing one or two in the sprint for 10th.
All the mates did a great fight and are already getting pumped for more pleasure and pain next weekend.
Nuff said
Aaron
Squadra Ovest
