They Like to Get Dirty

Photo shows why you want a lot of mud clearance on a cyclocross bike

The photo was "as at the finish" with no artistic rearrangement

Race plan followed. The mud pit is scary, but also the most fun of anything on the course. RatTrap looks like he got some great videos of all kinds of stuff I was a little too preoccupied to notice. The "traction" setting on the tires was the better choice, at least for me.

It's too bad it doesn't snow this time of year in North Texas. I HIGHLY recommend this sort of tomfoolery to all, as long as they don't take it too seriously.

One thing that did surprise me was the number of odd noises and aspects that Buddy exhibited for the very first time. I had gears skipping. I thought I had a broken rear spoke until I realized about the third lap that the "broken spoke" was actually gravel stones hitting the aluminum down tube with a loud "ping." It only happened on a very specific segment of the course. I fear I'll have a lot of paint touchup ahead. If you plan to cyclocross, a strip of duct tape down the front of the down tube might be a good idea to reduce the paint damage.

And Watch for Anna's report! She's racing tomorrow. You go girl!

More later. Right now, I feel like taking a long, hot shower. In the meantime, see what RatTrap had to say.