It was Father’s Day yesterday but in Ottawa it also meant it was time for Preston St. This year was the 35th running of the annual race. Pretty darn cool. This criterium is part of the Italian Festival action and always draws a huge crowd. This year was no exception.

There were three races on the day. My race was at 2:10 – this year there was a women’s category for the first time and we raced with the Masters 2/3 men. Apart from the rain and the crashing, it was a pretty darn good time. Yes, I’m fine – I was lucky to avoid the crashes. Though I did have a couple of close calls with my rear wheel sliding out on me. (I learned later that to avoid this I need to take a more straight line through the corners.) I was in the main pack when a large crash occurred, splitting the field. Yep, I was behind the crash. In the end I finished third. I’m content with this result. Not my best result but considering the conditions and my riding yesterday, I take this as a win. I must admit I didn’t ride the best race technically. I was a bit tense and apprehensive in the corners. Thanks to Amanda for helping me settle down during the race. (I’ve written a race report – go read it here.)

It’s funny, seems like the race was simply part of a pretty darn good day yesterday. I love going downtown for Preston St. Everyone in town seems to come out and it is an opportunity to catch up with people I don’t normally get to see or talk with. Thanks so much for the cheering yesterday – it does help so much. After the race we had the annual Ride with Rendall barbecue. Thanks to our hosts for a great evening. Lots of stories, reminiscing, rehashing of the racing, and lots of laughs. Not to mention some pretty darn good food – thanks Nuria – you really out did yourself! A great way to wind down the evening and close off a darn fine Sunday in June.