A family sized serving of humble pie for me.

Last night I made the oh-so-frustrating journey out to Haines Point ( I @#$#%# hate driving in this city) to hook up with Adam Austin (who held is own quite easily) for a little pre-criterium training. The scenery was beautiful, my performance was not.

The group ride is put on by NCVC and is described as "an intense, race-simulation ride. Not for the faint of heart or those uncomfortable riding in close quarters. The group does multiple laps around the park. The southbound side is generally for recovery, but once around the Point on the northbound side, things get fast and furious. Great practice for race finishes".

Yeah, well let me tell you, that was putting it lightly. The group was about 30 riders strong with a pace that was blistering. Almost like it was my job, I continued to get dropped on one blazingly hot corner and would have to slay the winds on my own to get back to the group. At times it was pretty demoralizing. I, mean, I can recall looking down at my computer and seeing that I was turning 111 rpm's, doing 27mph, and losing ground quickly. If it wasn't for the cars and the occasional stop sign I would have never hung in there. But, like they say...whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger. So, next thursday I expect to be out there again....and I expect to give a better showing.

As for my race this weekend. My expectations just went from low too non-existent.  @yougotdropped. Despite what your blog says...get your cameras loaded with film. I'll be the guy in the back, wearing the best looking kit in town.

This is what it looks like out on Haines Point. Serious Business. photo by Ricky Carioti/The Washington Post