My first, Sport EFTA Championship race was like a bug being smooshed against a windshield in slow, muddy motion. I had my normal fast sprint start, and was tucked in being behind teamate Rob (the winner). Rob put on burst to pass 2 riders, I only had the power to pass one, and got slowed by the interving rider in the 1st Mud bog on the plateau. At the second Mud bog everyone stacked up to run, and I foolishly tried to ride on the left side, and hit the BIG mud puddle with a splat on MY RIGHT SIDE. Riding again, my shoe unbuckled, stopped, then buckle fell off (9 mins
repair). Masters, then the Women passed by.

Took my time picking my way through the Sport Women, enjoyed the scenery. Pushed hard the second lap (55 minutes). Start of the last Lap, hit the 1st Mud bog on the plateau, too slow. Legs too tired, SPLAT in the deepest part of the mud puddle on MY LEFT SIDE. Nature loves symetery. Pick grass clumps out of everything, clean the mouth piece on camel back for the 2nd time. Riding again, a minute later, the front tire went flat. Change the tire (11 mins repair) and
watched all the Women pass me for the final time. I was less than 200 meters from my car with 7.5 muddy miles to go, judgement time. Kept going to finish in 3 1/2 hours, and a very nice cheer from the Crank Racing team (Thanks!!!).