Back to racing World Cups!
After finishing my US racing season with the Tour of the Gila, I headed straight to Europe for my first World Cup event. The competition took place in Ostend, Belgium—a venue that the USA team was familiar with from previous years. Our team was well prepared and fully aware of the course layout and event protocols. Despite feeling fatigued from a month of intense travel and racing, I was fortunate enough to have two days in Ostend before my firs race took place,. This was great since I have always felt it takes me a couple of days before I feel good in a new location after a long trip.
The time trial course featured a short, technical town loop that transitioned into an out-and-back stretch along the coastal highway. In the C5 category, the race comprised four laps, totaling roughly 36 minutes, which made pacing crucial in setting a fast time. On race day, I focused on starting smoothly over the initial 1 km of highway leading to the circuit, ensuring that I didn’t overexert early on. After the first lap, I quickly found my rhythm, steadily overtaking competitors while keeping my effort measured. The following three laps became a battle of maintaining pace and aerodynamic efficiency. Satisfied with my pacing strategy and overall performance, I clinched the C5 win by nearly 30 seconds—a victory made even sweeter knowing that the runner-up was World Champion Abraham.
After the time trial, I had an excellent meal at an Italian restaurant just off the beach in Ostend.. While the World Cup passed swiftly, I am largely pleased with how the event unfolded. Although I was unable to participate in the Maniago World Cup due to scheduling conflicts, my anticipation is growing for the upcoming World Championships later this year in Belgium. Currently, I am competing at the US Pro Nationals, an event that coincided closely with Maniago. Looking ahead, I hope future calendars will allow athletes the opportunity to compete in both the nationals and the World Cup series.
I am looking forward to the rest of the season and the next three years leading up to the Olympic and Paralympic games in LA!
