The Final Race--June 24th: First place again!

Thanks to the cheering section I brought with me from our week of camping I was able to take 1st place again. I was absolutely floored that I beat the girl who usually takes 1st place. She actually took 3rd.

Kim started out in the lead, but it didn't take long for me to catch her. I'm in the red at the top of the hill.

Duv is right behind me. She is the girl who normally takes 1st place. I was absolutely shocked when I passed her and stayed ahead of her.

Chasing down Kim with Duv on my tail.

Now that's a look of determination.

Duv's thinking "What the crap? I'm supposed to be in front!"

Kim's desperately trying to get her lead back.

Still trying to chase me down.

Still chasing.

Being chased and KNOWING I'm being chased. "Go, go, go", I tell myself. "I love hills. They are my favorite," I keep telling myself.

Before: This was my first race. I was dead. Hated the race. Dreaded the rest of them, but was determined to improve.

After: This was my last race. I was 9 lbs lighter, much stronger, and more confident. Too bad I will be bumped up to expert next season. That means 4 laps instead of 3 laps and eating more humble pie. Good for all of us, eh?

Now that this experience is over I am able to reflect on what I've learned. Hard work and perseverance pay off! Make a goal and don't give up! I also feel incredibly blessed to have this opportunity and that I made it safely through it! There were plenty of bad wrecks out there. Thanks, everybody, for your support! Next event...sprint triathlon this Saturday with Steve!