Relaxed and Ready

As Ranno and I grunted our way up the mountain today, we had a conversation about what really sets some of the pros apart. The guys/girls at the top are making it look easy. There are a lot of factors that make that separation, as for myself, my limiter is my technical skills. I am not bad technically, but I am not great either. Guys like Kabush, Craig, Bishop and JHK fly through sections without wasting their precious energy, as I "muscle" my way through.



Hence my new found devotion to exploring the trail systems around my home. Ranno took me on another "new" adventure today, with trails like these you would think my skillz would be dialed in no time!?!



... With the added practice comes more crashes, I ate it again today and check out where my bike ended up (yep it was that steep!).



Ever notice how relaxed Kabush always is, it's as if he is laughing on the inside, "man these guys suck." When in reality he is just focusing on staying relaxed, limber and in the moment, save that energy for the pedals. There is no exception, while racing we are all in the "pain cave", it is just a matter of who can manage it better (avoid the "suffer" face"). Or maybe I just need to grow some sideburns?



My favorite part of the Logan Mill Climb is the greeting crew waiting for you at the top. I always make sure to start whistling about 200 yards from the top so the pups are waiting, tails waggin and all!