Europe Racing Block with Team USA and Bear
USA Cycling and Bear National Team - Europe Racing Block
Wow! I was invited to race in Europe with Team USA and Bear National. Racing in Europe had been a dream of mine since I could ride a bike, and finally, achieving it was surreal.
The trip was primarily for elite U23 racers and to give a few Juniors a taste of European racing. The Jr. races would be in Haiming, Austria, and Nove Mesto, Czech Republic, a famous World Cup race venue.
Leading up to the trip, I put in some intense training. Unfortunately, I started the trip sick and could not race Austria. I had to take some time off the bike to rest and recover. Watching my friends race was hard. I wanted to be out there with them, but the experience and scenery were amazing.
The following week, the team drove to Nove Mesto na Morave in the Czech Republic, where the World Cup would take place. Pulling up to the venue was surreal, and it was crazy to see all the national and pro teams I watch on tv.
The track was technical, with three massive, super steep climbs, each followed by a descent with roots, rocks, and challenges. Coming into the race I wasn't too nervous because I had no expectations. I knew I was less than 100% and focused on gaining experience rather than aiming for a specific result.
Race day was hectic, and standing on the start line on the second row directly behind the world champion in the rainbow jersey was insane! I didn't have the best start, including a minor crash, causing me to fall way back. I struggled with the European aggression and came through the warm-up lap in 60th place. I focused on myself and fought as hard as possible for the rest of the race, eventually finishing in 34 postiion out of 129 racers. I gave everything I had that day, so I can't be disappointed with my performance.
Before the race, I rode with my favorite pros, Bjorn Riley and Riley Amos, which was very cool. I also road with the world champion for a bit. I'm very fortunate and incredibly grateful for the experience, and I cannot thank USA Cycling and Bear National enough for making this possible for me.
Next up for me is the Missoula XC in MT, and then I head to Canada with my Bear National Team for races in Canmore.
Nove Mesto World Cup 2024
