Canadian Mountain Bike National Championships, Mont Ste-Anne, Que.

Cross-country

For my official Pedal report...
Elite/Espoir Women and Junior Men/Women >>
Elite/Espoir Men >>

My personal report:
I was really nervous before Nationals because it was my first race back in Canada and it was arguably the most important event of my season. However, I really loved the course -- technical and fun, just the way I like it!

It was a hot day, but I started off at a reasonable pace because I didn't want to blow up, which lots of girls did. My legs felt strong and I kept up a consistent pace, slowly moving my way forward through the field and then holding my eighth-place position. I felt focused and I was riding the technical smoothly and cleanly except for one stupid crash that left its mark(s) on me. Somehow, in a tight hairpin corner, I went down. I'm not really sure what happened, but I remember the handlebars hitting my cheek and I ended up with a bloody knee, three deep chain ring digs in my right shin and a huge, deep bruise along with scrapes running up the left side of my left calf and part way up my thigh. I would have loved to see that on video!

I am satisfied with my performance. I'm pleased that I was able to put in a solid effort and I was racing against some super strong women.

Photos (L-R) Espoir Women's podium: Second place, Martina Feldmann (BC, Fact Canada); First place, Jean Ann McKirdy (BC, Rocky Mountain-Business Objects); Third place, Megan Kindree (BC, Team Squamish); Jean Ann with her medal and flowers; Geoff Kabush (BC, Maxxis) getting ready to win; Kabush setting the pace at Nationals.