Cycling doesn't like this, and my theory is you have to be anti social in a way, because the aim is to beat your mate and like it. I turned up at this race in a big group of people who are great and have good team spirit but felt quite alone. I had no one 'in my corner' as such and relied on old mates and their good nature to accept me and help out.
Don't get me wrong, I was focused and sort of ready, although I did not feel that good the week leading up to the event. I also had high expectations because of recent form and a confidence (whether it is justified or not) that I can podium this sort of thing. So I set out my pit and got down to the start nice and early ready to take on 12hours of cycling.
So what happened..... basically I was going well and then I wasn't. I set off briskly (not mental though) and found myself trading laps with Tom Ward who eventually came 2nd. We parted company about 5 or 6 laps in and then I settled, but at 8 hours in I started to feel rotten and then never recovered and so at 10 hours I simply had to stop.
Am I down though???? no is the short answer, I got it wrong a) I did not have pit man b) I did not give 12 hours racing enough respect c) I did not feed or drink enough again.
So for six hours I felt good and sure I was good enough to grab a podium. So lesson's learnt and I am safe in the knowledge that I gave it my all and there was no way I just wanted to top 10 again....... I wanted a podium.
Two things then, shall I lower my goals? bollocks no. Shall I train even more and try harder next time? yes.
Hence the cyclo cross bike and the notts and derby league races entered.
So I going to thrash myself around muddy fields for the winter and hope I get even fitter and faster.
What's the worst that can happen.............................................?