The first time is always sweet; the Kristin Danielson diary

Here, there, everywhere is the story of my summertime life. No wonder my parents always say ‘we can’t keep up with you’, I can barely keep up with myself!

My latest traveling saga started in Crested Butte, Colorado. I have always had a fascination with this appealing mountain town and it was hosting the 6th annual Wildflower Rush mountain bike race which is a part of the Mountain States Cup series.

I hadn’t planned on competing due to the fact that Tom and I had limited time to spend together. Thursday before the race, which was on Saturday, Tom mentioned maybe I should race. Since I often get my training advice from Tom, I couldn’t object. I pleaded with Tom to join me on the short outing but since there are really only two roads surrounding Crested Butte he had to turn me down. So off I drove; over Colbank pass, Molas Pass, Red Mountain Pass into the gorgeous ski town of Crested Butte. The course was perfect for me, long high altitude climbs through Aspen trees with easy fire road descents. I felt confident after my pre-ride and was ready for the race.

As the pro women blazed through the wild columbine, lupine and sunflowers I found myself battling for first with a strong woman. She was much stronger than me on the first lap and I kept losing sight of her. It always takes my body a while before my legs start to open up so I felt better on the second lap and was able to pass my mystery competitor and cross the finish line in first place. I was SO excited because this was my first victory as a “professional” racer.