Land of the Vines

A strange occurrence happened here in Auburn, California this last few days. For some unexplained reason, a storm veered off tract and instead of slamming into the North Eastern States as usual, it passed right through Northern California. What the hell. This is April. We rarely get rain here in God's country and never in April. Temps should be in the upper 80's by now. So as expected after a gully washer, the trails were muddy as heck.

Sunday was the 17th running of the Napa Valley Dirt Classic mountain bike race and Heywood's first. Big Cat, Heywood, and The Cook made the two hour drive through a torrential downpour in the wife's gas guzzling SUV to the town of Angwin, just a stones throw from Napa. Upon our arrival we found nothing but beautiful rays from the sun shinning on the muddy trails. These conditions were going to make for a delightful race. This race draws a large crowd and even a few pro's like Mark Weir to name a few.

So with the firing of the gun, the race was off to a fast pace. Started with a few muddy climbs that were rideable and then the WALL came into Wood's view. This short steep hill was most likely walked by all racers on the course this year. Once atop the hill it was back on the bicycle for some fast, muddy terrain. Trying to stay upright was made very difficult due to all the mud that accumulated on the tires. While on one of the early descents, Wood took a nasty crash on a gradual left-hand bender. Not very technical, just unable to get any traction until I hit the large stump just off the trail. No worries, still riding. There was some of the most beautiful single track that I have ridden for the next few miles. Lots of turns, tight, ups and downs. Just amazing until.... the big climb.

Now Heywood does not have one of those computer things on his bike. You know, the kind that show you how far the bike has traveled. So at about mile 15, came this climb that has to be longest, steepest, longest climb Heywood has seen while aboard a mountain bike. It just keep going. Right when you thought it was over, you turned a corner and it got steeper. Never seen so many people pushing there bikes up a hill. Wood tried to stay on top of his bicycle as much as possible but had to walk a few spots. The mud made it even more difficult than this climb should have been. Believe the climb lasted about 4-5 miles before finally leveling off. From there, just a sprint to the finish.

So with a time clocked at just under a day, Heywood Jablome crossed the finish line. Was he first? Nope. But he did set a personal best time. More importantly, Wood beat the guy on the unicycle. Thank God. Will do this race next year fo sho.

Lessons learned:
1. Use tires more suited for mud when riding in mud.
2. Don't use brand new cycling shoes for the first time during a race.
3. If you do violate lesson number 2 (above), bring mole skin for the blisters.
4. Don't drink a 40 before the race.