I had a few decisions to make during the season, one of which was to focus on the ICup races more than road races. I actually rode my road bike quite a bit but I chose to prioritize races on the ICup circuit to maximize my chances of getting a top 5. Truthfully I started thinking a top 1 was possible during the middle of the series, but Jonas turned out to be out of my league and surpassed me.
At some point during the Intermountain Cup season I also decided to start focusing my training away from ICup events in favor of the longer Park City Point 2 Point because that was also an important goal I had for the season. As much as I wanted to do it all, my goals were a little unrealistic in their variety. I can only do well at one discipline at a time.
Miles
I rode 3035 road miles and 1232 mountain miles. Last season I logged over 1100 mountain miles but didn't believe it. This season I believe it. I spent A LOT more time on the dirt. And it was great fun. Most every mountain bike ride is a blast where some of the road miles get old and boring. I AM a variety whore though.I do have to admit this season had plenty of lonely moments. The breakup of the SLC Bicycle Co. race team was nice in its reduction of drama but not as nice in the group ride aspects. The positive side of that coin is that I concentrated on my training even more than last years by not having the peer pressure of group rides without a training focus. I did join a lot of Rooters Bikers Edge rides and tried to integrate my training plan into them with decent success.
Best season
Results wise 2011 was my best season so far. Enjoyment wise as well. The mountain bike crowd is quite friendly while providing plenty of competition. It's really great to be cheered on by competitors - even direct competitors based on age and ability - during the race.
If you're doing better than someone else they will usually encourage you. And it feels great to reciprocate as well. I really enjoy cheering someone on, and not get the ice-race-face look like some of the roadies give you. Yeah, I've cheered roadies on too. And sometimes they appreciate it but sometimes not so much.I got a win!!!!
During the last race of the ICup season at Snowbasin I earned the opportunity stand on the top step of the podium! That felt good and of course I hope to repeat that accomplishment. The remainder of the season was filled with many top 5 finishes which also felt quite nice because as I said, the competition is pretty stiff.Training
The Cyclist's Training Bible by Joe Friel suits me.
I enjoy the structure, having a reason to get on the bike for each outing, keeping a log of my training, and the variety of workouts. This season I was also able to prove my results vs. my training peaks using SportTracks which helps me believe I am on the right track. Each A race corresponds to a high level of fitness coupled with low fatigue, resulting in the best results of the season.