Utah State Championships

It's been nine years since I've won the State Championship race in the mens pro field. Nine years. There have been many other wins, some close second place finishes and a handful of top 5's; but for some reason the "State Championship" even though it's just another mountain bike race, is a good one for the books. In fact it wasn't until after the race while spinning out the legs, that Chris Holley reminded me that it was the State Championships. I suppose had I been thinking about it during the race, I may have choked and lost it all. Probably a good thing to be so casual about it.I felt pretty good during Saturday's race despite the lack-luster feeling in the legs while trying to rush in a warm-up. It had been a long week as it always seems to be, but the stars found their formation and aligned quite nicely on this occasion. The field of 21 pros were all riding very well and for most of the race, there were about seven of us pushing the pace up front. Slowly, though, the course took it's toll on most. Flat tires, broken chains, crashes while trying to pass lapped riders. We all had a few moments. I had to dismount twice due to a few not so well orchestrated passes. But in the end, I found enough extra in the tank to pull off the win.It felt good.Big shout-out to the rest of the Kuhl team for their respected podium finishes. Also, the Roosters/Bikers Edge/Enve team. Bringing the heat in numbers and if anyone races against this guy, better watch out. He's on fire.