27 Dec 2016

I crashed my bike on Boxing Day. Not once, but twice. I knew from the start that I wasn’t race fit. And after one lap, I knew I wasn’t technically up for it either. There’s a notorious section called the Bomb Hole and I had one test run at it. This was going to be a problem. I’m bad going downhill at the best of times, and not knowing the best route down was a problem.

The family were lucky enough to see my second crash. This was the big over the handlebars event. And it has been decades since this has happened to me. This ride really brought me down to earth – in many ways. Once again, I know what my abilities are. This is the only way we can develop.

There are many things I could have done better. I could have not fussed about the family coming to watch. Parking a little closer would have been useful. I could have studied the lines better. And finally, I could have trained more.

The last thing I was going to do was quit. I dismounted once on the decent in to the Bomb Hole and made sure I rode the right line the last time. And I kept the audience entertained on the most difficult course I’ve ever ridden.

Luckily, even at the age of 45 I can take a big fall without hurting myself too much. I’m a little bumped and bruised, but generally fine, despite my own bike hitting me on my head. For a little while I will feel like a complete novice. The most important thing is to keep going. I will improve, and I will remember why I’m doing these things. Winning isn’t going to happen, but I can try and stay fit.

Perhaps I am a little shaken and I am sure my sore wrist will allow me to ride again tomorrow. I can tell, because I’ve hardly done anything today. My focus leaves me and I just rest all day.These days I don’t worry, but like many other things from real life, it disrupts my plans for days, weeks, months, or more. I’m aware of this now.

It is with a little regret that I was seen to tumble, but that doesn’t bother me. They saw me get up. The bigger regret is that life distracts me. That’s job and wondering where I will work in the future, leisure time, study, and so many other things.

I could quit, but I will push on. Next race, New Years Day!