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)