Iceman 2004 - My First Race

I've been a recreational mountain biker forever now and finally upgraded my Specialized Rockhopper to a Specialized Epic Comp.  Epic's are pure race bikes.  While I was purchasing this bike (in August), the shop told me I should try out this race called 'ICEMAN'.  Being a competitive person, sure why not.

As I learned more about the race, I started to get a little nervous.  27 miles, point to point.  Hmmm, can I do that at a 'race' pace.

So race day gets here and I find myself dressed for very cold weather.  It's 50 degrees.  Luckily I can shed off my sleeves and leg warmers.  My jacket has removable sleeps as well.

Around mile 12 I have an asthma attack, which is interesting since I don't have asthma.  This is the first time I've ever pushed my body to the point of death.  I never would have thought this given my athletic background (football, baseball, track).

The race final ends with me crossing the finish line in 2 hours and 42 minutes.  That puts me in 113th place out of 128.   LOL.

This race sparked a new life motivation.  I don't like to be beaten, and that race beat me, hard.  Going forward, I will conquer that race, I promise you that.

I didn't wear a HRM since I didn't have one.  Probable good since It would have blown up and started a forest fire.  Anyway's, here are some pics: