Valley of the Sun RR Current mood: hopeful Well, I'm not in the Leader's jersey anymore. Evidently there were time bonuses at the finish which were not mentioned anywhere in the race bible. The only time bonus mentioned was a QOM which wasn't really a QOM since it was downhill, but regardless it would be nice if ALL time bonuses were mentioned in the race bible so that you could plan out a strategy. It's my fault that I lost the jersey because I lead my two toughtest rivals right to the line, and they came around me there scoring valuable time. If I would have one that one time bonus I would still be in the lead. I jumped too early into a headwind; I should have waited a few seconds longer, and I could have powered my way ahead in first place for that QOM. I misjudged my power, and that's all on me. I didn't find it difficult staying out in front all day, and I spent some time behind my teammate, Helene, for a bit when she would block the wind for me. But I'm sure it zapped my legs a little, and I didn't realize it until I had to use them! I felt it wiser to remain safe because there were lots of crashes (one girl had to be helicoptered out), and I haven't raced with people since last year at Redlands. I don't know how people are riding. The criterium is today, and I'll do whatever I can to get the jersey back. I'm hoping there are more "mystery" time bonuses that aren't mentioned anywhere in the race bible. Criteriums are tough in that many people can ride them, but they are dangerous in that many people's physical capabilities outdo their bike handling capabilities. This criterium is also clockwise which is unusual. I'll probably have to go anaerobic today which will be an unpleasant experience---LOL!! The teams and individuals close to me today will hit me hard as they know I'm exposed. But, if I were them, I would do the same thing. I'm just gonna have to fight all day and stay upright too. This will be my first real criterium since Redlands of last year. After the race I'm going for a run. It will be nice and relaxing. The only way I can go down is if I trip...

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