The Race: Presbyterian Hospital Invitational Criterium
The Course: 18 laps of a 1.2-mile 8-corner crit.
The Field: 1/2 women
The crit didn’t play out as well as the team had hoped and I wasn’t happy with my riding. It was a disappointing race and one we’re eager to put behind us as we get ready for our next events.
That being said, nothing else I was going to say in this race report matters anymore. My teammates and I got to do what we love – race our bikes, work hard, finish safely, share a meal together afterwards – and nobody stole those moments from us. There have been many terrible things in the world in recent years, but the news that somebody attacked athletes at the finish line of their event bothers more than most. Perhaps I’m naive to think so, but I believe the world of athletic endeavors should be universally respected, held sacred and kept safe from terrorism. There is nothing like the moment of finishing a huge physical undertaking, and no person should ever crush that moment for another, especially not with unforgettable violence. I feel so sorry for everybody involved in the Boston Marathon for their pain and loss today, and want to reflect upon my recent race with only gratitude for the experience.
Very well expressed. I can’t imagine having to now add terrorism to the list of athletic concerns.
Sorry that the race didn’t go as well for you and your team as you had hoped for. No worries, there are plenty more races on the horizon and, hopefully, you’ll be able to apply what you learned from this event to those future races.
That being said, yes, I agree…I always thought athletic events were held sacred and immune from the attack that happened in Boston yesterday. I always worry when I think about how easy it would be for some psycho to do something to a rider or other athlete in a major race or sporting event. What happened is so senseless. And it’s such a sad day today.