Kissena Cycling Club

Not much to say about the race... except JP was missed (early flat) and Ragot rode perfectly... His moves were really helpful in reducing the number of efforts needed to cover the many small moves going off the front. Thanks Eric. I felt pretty good at some points and not so good at times. I bridged to a break that had a former team mate and friend Tony Taylor. I knew he was strong from previous moves in the race. But more importantly, I know he can ride a bike. it was a pleasure to ride with two other riders that were skilled. After the season of being in groups off the back doing pace-line 101 for 40-50 miles, their skills were welcomed. I almost threw in the towel, but remembered JP saying dropping out sets a bad precedent. Good point JP... and it came in handy. I relaxed... drank some water and took a gel... I bounced back.

Roy Hutchinson rides the pack, early in the race. (Photo by Craig Nisperos)

First, I would like to remember the man that this race was in honor of - Pete Senia... I am not sure how many of you knew him. He passed after I had last raced, so I was not aware of it until I saw the race title. Pete was a true gentleman. A good example for us all. He tried to inspire civility and good sportsmanship among us, and I am afraid we have yet to attain his good example. I would like to thank Pete for his contributions to our sport... truly a man worth remembering. Men like Al Toefield and Pete were cycling saints, providing a place for us to indulge ourselves in this most incredible sport.

Eric Ragot's attacks during the 1/2/3 race. (Photo by Tom Olesnevich)

Secondly, I'd like to again thank Rich Hincapie for taking me under his wing and showing me the ropes. If it were not for him I may have remained clueless for many more years about the sport and never attained the necessary skills needed to progress. This does not mean I will wear his Jeans - I do have standards.

Eric "The Mehlenbeck" Mehlenbeck chases to eventually finish 7th in the Masters race. (Photo by Craig Nisperos)

Thirdly, I would like to thank Charlie "I" for his own self imposed high standards - when I raced with him at Bear this year I was able to see a great rider in action. There were things - the subtle things - that I had forgotten and because of Charlie, I road different that day. Thanks Charles for being meticulous in all things cycling. If you have not watched Charlie race from inside the peloton... may you have the opportunity some day. He is a master rider.

Chris Yack raced to 9th place in the Masters race. (Photo by Craig Nisperos)

Fourthly, but not 'leastly', I would like to thank my good friend (although I think he would deny that if asked) Lenny Katz for putting up with me and waiting for me up all those hills on the triangle ride. Lenny, I have not forgotten the many times you have waited for me after everyone was out of sight and pulled me back to the group. I hope we have many more years of training and racing together.

Congrats to all that raced today and may all your cycling wishes be fulfilled...

best regards,
Roy

Roy Hutchinson on his way to winning the 1/2/3 race. (Photo by Craig Nisperos)