Remember the 1989 Tour de France when after 2,400 miles of racing Greg Lemond took the TT by eight seconds to with the race. Many accredit his win over Lauren Fignon to superior aerodynamics. Some, actually citing that Lauren’s ponytail may have lost him the race. And I know we’ve all see Lance on TV modifying his position in the wind tunnel. Even as a guy who shaves his legs, I’ve always wondered how big of a difference it really makes.

We woke up this morning to a cold and snowy day. The race was up in Evergreen which is 15 minutes up the mountain from Denver. Just surviving the drive down 93 was an accomplishment in itself. With the bad roads we pulled in just as Jakes race was starting. By the time I filled out the paper work and pinned on the number, he had to start a few seconds late. After a little convincing he was headed down the frozen course trying to catch up. When he came by half lap later, he looked frozen and had to carry his bike up these huge barricades.

My seven year old son Jake went to his first actual Mudskippers practice last Sunday and he loved it. I was a little worried that he’d get frustrated and the last thing I want to do is burn him out on cycling before he’s big enough to ride a real cross bike. The coaches did a great job and even though he is the smallest and youngest rider his spirits were high and I think his shortcomings only motivate him more. He’s riding a 27.5 pound bike and is at least 8” shorter than the rest of the kids.