I’d finally run out of excuses and it was time to see what all the fuss is about, so IMBRC’s race in up the road in Tymon Park seemed an ideal introduction to cyclocross (and a good excuse to escape the architecture studio!)
A mass start and short, tight course made for a relentless fast race. In true Tymon Park style it was a real mudfest, of the gloopy, triple the weight of your bike sort! It was hard work, always someone really close to catch, and although I was ahead, there was a girl not far behind for the first few laps. I was feeling pretty strong, powering through the mud, and enjoying myself. I was slightly jealous though of people with skinny tyres who seemed to cut through the sloppy mud with far less effort than me! By the 4th lap I had a good lead but disaster struck – puncture! I’d used my spare tube riding to the race, so ran half a lap to the feed zone but by the time I got sorted it was too late. Really annoying, first time I’ve ever dropped out of a race. Still, I was surprised at how enjoyable the cyclocross was, a real chance to push yourself and get the adrenaline running.