I had intended to get an update out sooner but between 36 hours of no sleep and a cold I was drained up until the last few days. I am sure many are wondering what was Sam’s take on the Worlds and his results? Well in short, I am satisfied with my rides and overall I am pleased with my conditions considering how early in the season it is. High points for the week in Italy racing included riding personal bests in all three events I entered while along the way slashing the old American record in the team sprint with my fellow teammates Aaron Trent and Will Chesebro. A more difficult accomplishment to quantify is that after two years of struggle, I put together a ride in the Kilometer TT that I was proud of. In fact it is hard to put in words exactly what I experienced in the Kilo…symbolically I finally shook the monkey off my back in the final 500 meters of the race and finished off my routine solid start.
Now the reflection, critique, and ultimately the look forward…
At this year’s Track Worlds, it became very evident that the bar has been raised. Rides that would have left all of team USA medaling just 4 years ago, placed us in heated battle for the top 10. Each year the level of competition and depth of competitors is elevated, making for a much more intense and worthy field. However, it is also a constant reminder that the level of commitment and training that was sufficient for yesterday, is not enough for tomorrow.
Analyzing my individual performances and placement, I had expected more from my rides both in speed and placing. There is plenty of room for improvement when it comes to execution as well as preparation for racing. Now is the time to start dialing in the details: be it aero position on the bike, how my leg fits/contacts the bike, and/or the overall approach to riding a particular event. Knowing I have yet to perfect these things and continue to get stronger through training, gives me confidence in my ability to be on the podium. However in order to arrive in London as a podium favorite, I must do all I can to make cycling my priority. Thus mimicking the intensity and dedication all professionals must give their chosen disciplines in order to achieve greatness.
Track Worlds is now behind me, and rapidly approaching is road season. The first big races of season are little more than a month off and my legs, while primed for a finish line sprint, are in dire need of an endurance tune up in order for me to make the mad dash to the finish line. This weekend Sara, Amelia and I will shove off in the Sprinter van headed for southern locals where we can finally shed winter's grip. With the sun in our faces and snow at our backs, I have plans to watch the miles disappear from underneath my bike tires; rekindling the flame that saw me through a great 2010 road season.
There is a lot of work to do, but it is work that I eagerly await. Thanks to the continued support of all of you, I know that I can and will complete the job that is laid out before me.
Sam