Last weekend, myself and Ricey took part in the Capital Punishment Mountain Bike race in Canberra. Beautiful conditions (if not a little chilly), fun trails and a great crowd made for a really nice morning of riding. Finishing off with 4km of the awesome Skyline trail at Stromlo keeps a smile on your face for a while!
Towards the front end of the race, through the single track around Majura Pines, I found myself in a conga line of around 6 riders. The riders at the front were cursing, which was fine, but it was amazing how easily it was to join the groove, relax into the pace set by others. I've been there in other races, and before you know it, you have ridden 5 km at a pace about half of that you would normally do. Then, one race, as I was entering 'cruise' mode, a guy pulled up behind me, and politely yelled, "Guys at the front, riders wanting to pass, whenever you get a chance."
Within a few hundred metres, the front riders had moved to the side and we were able to pass, increase the pace and get into a real rhythm. The open trails were a pure joy.
It was FUN.
Since then, I have resisted the urge to cruise. Politely asked to pass and ridden my own lines.
Tried to lead, not follow.
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