The 2017 Dirty Kanza proved to be the hardest race I have ever done. I knew going into the race that finishing was the main goal. I have had a great year of training with a couple of exceptions this past month. Getting banged up in the wreck 3 weeks out and coming down with a cold the week of the race, can mess with your head sometimes.
We got really lucky with the weather this year. Dry conditions on the course & light winds made for a fast day to start with. I tried to ride smart from the beginning and not go out very hard. As we went through the first check point I was still feeling good, but there was still lots of miles ahead. Around 80-90 miles my stomach began to start cramping up. Not quite sure what the issue was, but I was trying to drink as much as possible. When I got to the second check point, I was starting to really struggle. This isn't good when you still have around 100 miles left to ride. I just kept telling myself that I need to finish the day. At somewhere between 120-130 miles I started to have trouble with cramping in my legs. I stopped at a couple ranchers' houses and got some cold water. That seemed to help my stomach and felt good on the legs. When I reached the last check point, I knew I could still Beat The Sun, but it was going to take some real determination. I kept my head down and tried to keep pedaling. I don't know I could be passed by that many people in one race. Seeing the finish line in Emporia was a great relief. I know that I will be back next year to redeem myself!
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