One gear = One whole world of hurt
The innagural NZ Singlespeed championships on Saturday quite simply went off. Huge field. Classy field of legendary NZ riders (and a bloody fast Aussie ring in). Wicked atmosphere. Best event of the year, period. What happened? As per usual I'll write a proper story later, but the short version as follows.....
Turn up in Rotorua and pre-ride on 32-16 gear (on 29" wheels). Realise this is too big but can't be bothered changing it. Decide to employ Tuckie logic..... If I could push that, I'd win....
Raceday, get kitted up in my "special" costume. Proceed to scare young children with hideous outfit.
Race starts, course is rather demanding. Pick my way through field and soon get to Mr Weinberg's wheel.
Play Cat n Mouse for first 2/3 of race.
Make judicious use of the beer shortcut and establish a 'race-winning' 45sec gap. Get distracted deciding where the tattoo should go. Weinberg gets back on my wheel. enter last lap (of 6) wheel to wheel.
Epic battle continues. My legs are blown to pieces, struggling to turn the gear. Start to make mistakes. Fatigue or beer? Weinberg pounces. I dig deep and time gap sewsaws.... but I just can't get back at him. Weinberg wins, I get yet another National Championship 2nd. My legs swear to never co-operate again. Dissapointingly there is no best dressed prize as surely that was mine?! Children.... avert your eyes....
bigdog(tuckie) (Comment this)