Lawrence Kansas hosted the Grinder Nationals on a cold day. Luckily the wind wasn't very strong or the conditions would have been really bad. As it was, temps were in the low 20s at the start.
I was excited to get back racing after a very long winter. With my wife passing away on February 19th and the weather being so cold, I didn't get many miles in this year. I knew that if I rode smart at the first I would be ok. As the race started, my legs felt fresh so I tried to keep tucked in the pack to stay out of the wind. I knew if I could hook up with Joe Kleidosty, who was racing on a SS, we could work together for part of the race. As things worked out, Joe & I worked together for about 3/4 of the race. We had caught up with a few guys and one of them was in my (50-54) age group. I did feel strong for most of the race and was able to place 10th overall and 1st in the 50-54 (Now a National Champion!). I know I have lots of work to do before Dirty Kanza in June, but this does give me some confidence going into the season.
It was really nice to get out of town and see so many friends and be able to spend time with Ginger and her family. It was really fun for Kellar to help out with the awards ceremony.
