The last time I did Worlds was in 2015 in Weaverville, California. I was keen to give it another go to see how I would stack up two years later. The training had gone well and I was feeling really strong.
The race was in Finale Ligure, Italy apparently a real hot spot for mountain biking. A great location for a race and good spot to do some travelling and enjoy local wine and cuisine post race. We headed there a week early to check out the course and get on Italy time. Coach, buddy Ryan and wife Madison were pitting for Steve, Andrew & myself. We were in good hands.
The course was shorter than most 24 hours at 10km and 350 meters gain. It would be tight for the first few hours with 400 riders and minimal passing opportunities on the front end of course. The back end had a real power section with some challenging rocky climbs before fun descent into the berms (aka party zone) leading to start/finish area.
 |
| Race course recon what a view! |
 |
| Andrew & I |
It was great weather for race day. The Elites started first with a fairly long Le Mans start. I just settled in and tried to be patient for first few laps with all the congestion and set a steady pace. Pacing was on track for first four hours but I was already behind in my nutrition only getting 1/4- 1/2 bottle of Infinit per hour. From then on I paid the price for my mistake racing dehydrated and on a caloric deficit. I managed to come around a bit and the pit crew told me I had to drink more and go faster. I really tried to up my pace but did not have much gas in the tank. The night was kind of a blur trying to keep it together and figure out how I would fix myself. It wasn't until the last three laps that I was able to push the pace a bit more. I did my best under the circumstances but it was not my best performance. Still managed to get 28 laps in finishing 6th in Elite/Overall for women. A hard lesson but one that will not be forgotten.
 |
| Shaun telling us what's up for the run entrance/exit |
 |
| The berms |
The rest of the trip was fun enjoying lots of gelato, pizza, pasta, olives & local wines. Good times and lots of laughs with great friends.
 |
| Finalborgo |
 |
| Barolo |
 |
| Nice |
Thanks to Infinit Canada, Specialized, and Crankbrothers for your support. A huge shout out to Coach, Ryan and Madison for their pit support. The result would not have been the same without you. Congrats to Steve for 9th & Andrew 3rd in categories & fellow Canadian Cory Wallace for taking the win! I am really looking forward to the rest of the season.
