The Valley of the Sun Stage Race was yet another challenging three days of Masters racing this year.  I chose to race Masters with all we have going these days.  The races are shoreter but not any less intense.  On the opening Time Trial, I took 4th overall.  The races second stage was decided on the KOM lap, with barely missing the key move.  I ended up 11th winning the field sprint up the finall climb.  On the final day, stage three was pretty steady.  With four laps to go, I went to the front and stayed out of trouble.  In the end, I hit the final turn in first but ended up 8th overall for the day.  The final GC was posted with my result being a 10th place finish. 

Race Results:  http://www.usacycling.org/results/index.php?compid=122778

The season officially started for me today.  Our team helped support the McDowell Mtn. Criterium in Fountain Hills Arizona.  Team RPM did an outstanding job of hosting the event.  I was able to race the Masters 40+ race taking one Prime and 5th overall.  The Masters 30+ was immediately following the 40+ and I pack finished around 15th in that one.  With balancing everything going on, I did not stay for the Pro, Cat 1-2 race.  My overall numbers on the SRM were good and I am looking forward to racing the Valley of the Sun Stage Race February 16-18.

Race Results:  http://www.usacycling.org/results/index.php?compid=122778

My off season training has gone well.  I will open up the 2007 race season with the "McDowell Mountain Circuit Race" doing the masters race.  AZphalt Cycling is working support for this race.  This should be a good day of high intensity to get ready for the "Valley of the Sun Stage Race".  I am glad this in on the schedule this season.  I missed it completely last year and only completed part of the race in 2005.  It is an outstanding early season stage race put on by White Mountain Road Club.  I am not sure the number of times I have done this race, but it si some where around ten times.  Once through these races, there are a number of local Criteriums that I plan to do that really work out well balancing things with work and family.