First off we were pretty stumped as to what bike to ride. The Vipa was built for those conditions and the SL929 weighed in at sub 8kgs. We didn't take the decision lightly, beating James on this track was going to be tough.
Let me briefly explain how we went about choosing the correct bike for the day. We did four laps on track with a Power Tap, two on the SL929 and two on the Vipa. Went home and compared the data, after lots of questioning and analysis we decided that less weight was more beneficial.
A good start was important setting the pace on the first lap has many advantages, I did just that. I had the control, exactly where I wanted to be. James rolled though on lap two, I knew if he didn't ride away here the race would go all the way to lap six. James is a great athlete, fitness wise we are on par. This race I believed would be won in the mind. Who ever wanted it most would win.
Half way though lap 4 things were neck and neck we were throwing everything at one another. I could feel his pain and and sure he could see mine. I clipped a rock on one of the descents and heard I had cut my rear tire. I stopped right away and made sure the cut had sealed 100% before I climbed back on the bike, a spectator shout " James was 15sec ahead" around the next corner I saw him on the side of the track wheel out trying to fix a puncture.
To be honest I had mixed emotions, I wanted to beat him fare and square but at the same time I was now in a commanding position.
Going onto lap five I had over 3:30 lead, that's when I knew it was time to ride well within myself. Follow the same procedure I would on any other day.
Before I knew it I was coming into the start finish straight for my first elite National Championship title. Believe me, it hasn't taken a year or two to get here, I have been doing this my whole life. Through the good and the bad my dream nor dedication hasn't changed.
Part of a great athlete is his support crew, sponsors, parents, coaches, girlfriends and most importantly a team manager. All these people add to the success of a athlete.
Thank you to everyone that has been there from the start. I will wear the Green and Gold with pride.
