USA Pro nationals

Coming into USA Pro Nationals, the goal was simple: the time trial. I wanted that jersey badly. I knew a podium would still be something to be proud of, but the target was the top step. Everything in the weeks leading up to the race was built around giving myself the best shot possible.

Before nationals, we had a team camp in Iowa — a mix of crit racing, long days on new roads, and just enjoying being around the squad. The only downside was the knee pain that kept hanging around after getting hit by a car earlier in the year. It had been manageable, but the week of nationals, when I got back on the TT bike, it flared up again. Honestly, it rattled me. I didn’t have many options, so I backed things off and tried to let the knee settle. Not exactly the ideal lead‑in, but sometimes you just have to adapt.

TT day, we had great weather low wind but it was hotter then I was expecting. I kept the warm‑up shorter to avoid cooking myself before the start. Forty minutes is a long time to be on the limit, and I felt like I had a solid pacing plan. Still, the hour before the start was rough — nerves were high, and I could feel how much I wanted this one.

Once I rolled down the ramp, things clicked. I settled into pace quickly and felt smooth. About ten minutes in, the effort started to bite, but I was still right where I needed to be. The course was brutally simple: straight, flat, and exposed, with four U‑turns. That kind of layout gives you way too much time to think, question, overthink, and then question again. When I came through the end of lap one, I heard on the radio that I was sitting in first place. I knee that If I could reapeat the first lap I would have a pretty good result.

The second lap was pure grit. I started to fade earlier than I hoped, and I was fighting the bike a bit — not as smooth or controlled as I wanted. But I emptied the tank. By the finish, I was completely done. The kind of empty where you’re not even sure you’re pedaling straight.

For a moment, I was still leading. Then two riders came in faster, and I ended up third, just seven seconds off the win. Losing by that little stings, especially when you know you didn’t have a perfect ride. But honestly, I’m proud of how I fought. Proud of how I handled the knee issues, the nerves, the course, and the pressure. A podium at Pro Nats is something I’ll carry with me.

And the exciting part? I’m heading to the wind tunnel next week. There’s free speed on the table, and I’m hungry to find it.

The criterium the next day was a blast — fast, aggressive, and a good way to shake out the legs after the TT. I felt sharp and raced well, which was a nice confidence boost.

Now it’s time for a short reset before locking back in for World Championships. very exited to get back to traing in Nice France and get building for the second half of the season.