Rouyn Noranda Criterium – Stage 4

 

Nearing the end. It’s easy to understand why they liken this race to the Tour de France. It’s a long, grueling stage race for the juniors. Conditioning is key to success.

 

Today was a good day for the team. There were no mishaps—no flats, no crashes, nada. A first. As a result, Borah did well, with three racers staying with the main peloton for the entire race. The other three made a valiant effort even after getting lapped. It was good to see everyone trying so hard. I’m just glad it’s not me doing the 97k road race the next day. I’m sure that, on the one hand, they’ll be glad it’s over, but on the other hand, they’re going to miss the adrenaline rush, and the excitement of battle.

 

Please see KodakGallery for lots of photos from the crit, including many of the hundreds of spectators lining the course to cheer on the racers. The local people are extremely friendly, and are often striking up a conversation to ask why we’re here, who’s racing, and where we’re from. Somehow between their little English, and my little French, we manage to communicate.

 

Overall standings—after the crit, Borah has moved up another slot to 22^nd place. Hopefully, with a good road race for stage 5, Borah can move up a bit further.

 

Favorite photos: Aside from those of our riders–the little boy looking back as I take his photo; the two old men sitting in their car watching the race; the mechanic running out onto the course to grab an errant water bottle–with wheel still in hand; the top riders shaking hands at the start of the race; the muscle strain on the riders as they climb the hills.

 

References: For a very nice description of the road race, see Jim Wilson’s blog. He followed the race, and helped out when riders needed assistance. The link is: http://blog.jamesrwilson.com/

 

Tags: cycling