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Race Recap 2021 FLE # 3 - 25/50/75 mile - Hammer Head

     First, let me just say that racing in Florida is legit. This is a fantastic event for a community of riders who are really into riding and racing. And if anyone is picturing just flat, sandy single track, let me clear that up for you right now: this is among the fastest courses I’ve ever raced, no kidding. there was more of a mix of tech and speed throughout the 25 mile lap. This year, they mixed it up by making it 20 miles of pure singletrack with lots of punchy hills followed by 5 1/2 of mixed terrain. Fortunately we’ve gotten some rain over the last month so the trail was packed pretty good outside of a couple sandy spots.

     I just went in on race day and figured I’d learn the course as the day went on. As there was some confusion on the route the day prior. It was good to see so many new friends out there racing, some for the first time, and some familiar competitors as well. To maintain the health & safety of the riders,
Dave Berger released us from the start line in small groups. I might have well been in a road race the pace was so fast. Absolutely blazing trying to hold onto the front group I was just pushing as hard as I could to get to the woods in front of the pack, I was happy to be there in the front 15-20 riders.

     With my first attempt at the hammer Head. I learned rather quickly that sometimes you’re the hammer, sometimes you’re the nail. I was definitely the nail at this race…mid way through the race I suffered a mechanical. My bottom bracket seized quickly teaching me another lesson. The bottom bracket might not be the most exciting part of a bike, but without it you'd basically stuck. This put a stop to my race pace. I opted to just ride the course to the finish.

    Overall, this was a successful weekend and a great start to my 2021 racing season. A big thankyou to our sponsors for their continued support! Athlossports, ESI Grips, Honey Stinger, Vittoria Tires, Togs,  Your contributions is what helps make our program a success. 









                                 

                                                          230 Washington St

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