Marathon Mountain Bike Nationals is on Saturday. Here in Bend, Oregon.
Racing at home is awesome. But also comes with its own challenges.
This morning, as I was doing my stretching, I was thinking about Saturday's Race.
The course is challenging and the competition stiff.
This will be my first race in the USA Cycling Pro Category.
I know the trails.
I have done the work.
This is going to hurt.
How much I can push myself?
How well I can shut off the central governor?
How deep can I dig?
Saturday will be a day that will require mental toughness, positive self-talk, consistent attention to nutrition, solid bike handling skills, little gears, high cadence, pedal mashing, dust surfing, confidence and a little Jens Voigt channeling: "Shut Up Legs".
Bottom line: It really comes down to how much I want it.
Saturday I will race my best. I will cross the finish line with nothing left. And no matter where that puts me in the standings, I will pleased with my performance and my season and myself.
Send strong energy at about 10 o'clock Saturday - I'll be starting the Flagline climb. I am going to need it.