Tuesday, August 24, 2010

One Step Back

I write this with a heavy heart....

Over the last month we have been preparing for the 2010/11 Cyclocross season. Last year's De Stad Cyclocross Van Kansas Series was a great success. It was a lot of hard work and required help from dozens of teammates and friends. In the end everything worked out and we set record attendance levels and received some wonderful "Thank You Letters".

As the start of the CX season nears I am already feeling overwhelmed and we haven't even gotten to the first race. Last week we hit a few road blocks, which is normal in any endeavor. This year is a little different however. My work load at my "normal job" just about doubled this past year and included plenty of nights and weekend work. This leaves little time for myself and my family let alone trying to promote events. I had full intention of making the 2010 season the best ever, but I have come to the realization that I just do not have the physical nor mental ability to continue - at least at the level that I want to and demand of myself. Several other "life events" have also surfaced which have forced me to make the decision of not continuing on with a cyclocross series this year.

Sometimes in life you have to take a step back to go two steps forward. That is what my family and I have decided to do. Take a step back this fall, re-energize our bodies and souls and move forward with renewed passion.

In looking at the local/regional calendar it looks like there are plenty of cyclocross events, gravel grinders and clinics including Mike B's and Jef's . My team and I are going forward with one event this year - The De Stad Cross Cup. With all our energy focused on one event, expect big things. I know The Wheel Cyclery is going forward with the successful Smithville Cyclocross Festival. Several new events on the calendar including Rob's (Livestrong Army) new event at Shawnee Mission that I am looking forward to and Dan O's event in Kansas City. Curtis' Lawrence event is always fun - the Clinton course that we used for Chris Cross was one of my favorites. Heck, I might even have some form later in the year for one of Mark's frozen delights.....

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