The deadline for the (preferred starts)Ore to Shore mtn bike epic in Traverse City, Mi is looming. Its one of the greatest races in the midwest. Rocky, dry, hot, long, upper body punishment. My money this year is on Doug. No pressure for doug, but he's never one this one. Came close many times, but has had some hard luck.

I finally found and bought a mtn bike. A 29er gary fisher Superfly. Went to the river bottoms with Cam(also on her maiden mtn bike voyage) on wednasday. Fun times. The 29er has some strengths, and maybe a couple weaknesses. Im sure I will find out more this sunday in Eau Claire. www.wors.org

St Cloud crit was ok. Went to hard too early in the 35+ race. Didnt have much left for the last few laps. 20th or so. DNF'd in the 1/2  Just past half way...and then i bailed out. Wondering if i should double up at Northfield or not...?

I need to sell my Bontrager Carbon tubular wheelset. Good condition. email me: mattmuyres@hotmail.com

Northfield this saturday!

This past weekend was the Nature Valley Grand Prix pro stage race. They have 2 opportunities to have amateur races(category 2 and 3). Mankato had a 50 min crit race and Stillwater had a 10 lap crit race. Both were different.

Mankato: 3 teammates toed the line. Adam Hanson, Joe Lewis and myself. Flanders had numbers and a few unknowns to keep an eye on. Things were going well when about half way 2 guys slipped off the front and stayed away. We hammered hard near the end but to no avail. I flatted again with 2 to go. Hit a big crack in the pavement.  DNF

Stillwater: With Chillkoot Hill, anything can happen. The group was together for the whole way with a few being shelled every lap. It was about 10 guys to the finish. I tailed off with 2 to go and came in at 11. A great course. I could never shift to my small ring very well and lost valuable time on the hill just about every time. ugh A bit choppy and potholey in places, but just had to keep a solid line. The crowd was awesome. Thanks for cheering!

During this time, I was able to spend some time with Camilla Schmitz. She is a local amateur racer who races for Flanders. They brought an 8 person team to the womens field at the NVGP. As a roommate for the past few months, I was able to see Cam prepare both mentally and physically for this big 'A' race. She is undeniably one friend that I can 'easily' say can do anything when she puts her mind to it. I was able to witness food, race and bike preparation diligence with precision, while maintaining self-control. Her results during the 5 day race is testament to her professionalism away from the bike. A class act of a person and very happy to know her! (climbing in red)

The season is underway. I felt better at the last St. Fair Crit. Tried to be near the front more. Mulrooney was third. Joe Lewis s back from CO. Looking strong. Will be a big factor in upcoming races.

There was no crazy antics at the pro mens TT on Ohio street this year. I wasnt in the mood and Jwood couldnt make it up the hill.

Watched the St paul crit. Good racing. Will watch the uptown pro crit(s) tonight and then get ready for the mankato amateur crit saturday and stillwater crit sunday. I like both. See if i can bring home some moolah...!

Keep Hope Alive!