On Sunday I raced the first race in the Eastern Ontario Cyclocross Series.

And today (Monday), I’m very tired.

And I’m smiling and feeling very satisfied. This is what cyclocross does for me – and it’s something I didn’t realize I was missing until Sunday.

I think it was around 5:30 on Sunday evening when after interrupting Marc for the 10th time during his post-race bike cleaning, he said to me “The fact that you keep talking about your race and trying to figure out how you could have done better proves you had a lot of fun.”

I had more than fun – I thoroughly enjoyed it. I had forgotten what it feels like to race cyclocross. I missed that feeling of going super deep and not thinking I could do another lap and then somehow making it through. Don’t get me wrong, when Jodi lapped me, I was extremely relieved…

But aside from the racing, it’s the people and the local cyclocross community that make this sport so special.

It’s like a reunion of sorts – people who may not see each other all summer are back together to ride our bikes hard, cheer each other on, and to offer a helping hand or advice when needed. Everyone is so positive and happy to see others out racing.

I’m already looking forward to the next race on Sunday. It’s a new course for me and it will be fun to race the Madison. The little known secret is that the Madison is actually the hardest race of the season – a one lap all-out effort, rest while your partner does the same, and then go again – repeat for 60 minutes.

If you’re at the race on Sunday or any of the other races, I’m always happy to chat. You’ll see me riding around on my red bike and wearing the Ottawa Women’s Cycling Club colours.

Here’s an old time photo of me racing World Cup in Kalmthout, Belgium in 2009: