Reflections on cyclocross

First of all, if you haven't seen the video below and have been even remotely following the state of our economy it's worth your time.  There is quite a bit of language in this.  You've been warned.



Ok, cultural quota filled.  I'm currently in Fort Collins, Colorado for the USGP New Belgium Cup this weekend.  I really wanted to do this race last year but logistically it just didn't work out; this year it did.

Cross Crusade-Alpenrose
(photo credit to Matthew Lasala)

This post was initially going to go something like "wah, cyclocross is hard, I don't have support, why do I do this?" Until I realized that would be incredibly lame.
Yes, cx is hard, both physically and logistically.
Yes, I always wish I could do better.
Yes, I want to be a fully supported rider.
Yes, I also realize that I need to earn that; so far I haven't.
No, not a lot of people can do what we (wanna-be elite-ish cx racers) do.
Hell yes, I'd love to have someone throwing plane tickets, frames, entry fees, wheels and tires at me but that's not what this is about.

To me, cyclocross is about proving yourself.  To yourself.  True, endless money and equipment would make the logistics easier but would it be better?  In the end there will always be someone stronger, with a better selection of equipment or better technical skills.  Your job is to use the resources you have available, train as hard as you can with the time given and every time you line up in that start chute acknowledge one thing:  you only have to be better than yourself.  No one else.

Lastly, on a totally unrelated note, one of my friends entered a film festival and could use your help.  Below is the video he helped produced.  Take a look at it and if you like the special effects check out some of his other videos at his YouTube channel.  They're all incredibly detailed, well thought out and executed.  Enjoy.