Mud Fest 2006 (formally referred to as the Sea Otter Classic)

So last weekend was three big race for Brian at the Sea Otter Classic at Laguna Seca, California. It was local and, consequently, it was for bragging rights amongst friends! LOL All-in-all it was a good weekend of races and by far it was the best expo of booths I've seen at a race yet. The downside? MUD. Lots and lots of mud. And not just any mud - fine beach sand mixed with five weeks of rain. ugh. At one point the announcer likened it to peanut butter. Mmmmm.......yummy. This mud was accompanied, of course, by a cold, slow, steady sprinkle. For 5+ hours. Not exactly great for the athletes (or their bikes), but definitely not great weather if you're a spectator like me.

In the end, Brian was disappointed that he wasn't able to win a yellow jersey. When races turn out like they did this weekend, with close finishes, tough conditions and results that leave something to be desired for by my husband, I find it difficult to console him. I believe that over time, I've improved at it (if that's at all possible! LOL), but it's so hard to see the disappointment, the effort, the training and then watch him get passed at the line to take second place. It was a tough weekend with lessons learned I think. Even for me - I learned NEVER WEAR HIGH HEELS TO A RACE. EVER. You never know when you'll have to park your car on a mountain and walk a mile to see the race.

Here's a picture slide show of the highlights, including seeing Levi Leipheimer race! :)