World Championships

Hermida winning the Worlds

What an insane race the World Championships is. There is no more of an honest race to compete in. Theres no hiding, no sitting in, and everyone is on their limit and desperate to show their strongest hand.

The weather had been interesting, intense heat and humidity earlier in the week was replaced by more mild, but rainy weather. The course however could cope with the precipitation, and it got tacky with wet rock and roots to make it interesting. Up until now I hadnt ever had to use my Kenda Nevegal tires, Karmas and Small Block 8's have been adequate but I am sure glad I chose them for this race cause they were amazing. Ive never used a tire that hooks up so well in muddy or tacky conditions so if you want a tire for mud, youve gotta get them. I had all the confidence in the world and didnt put a foot wrong, I used the 2.1 rather than the 1.95, which allowed me to run slightly lower pressure.

The beginning is always a fun time, 85 riders racing elbow to elbow at full gas, trying to take any gap that opens to gain an advantage. I always enjoy the first few minutes, the close racing doesnt phase me and I often am able to find a few gaps. Eventually we come to a standstill as the course narrows and 6 wide has to go to single file. This is a chance to breath a little, but it also adds to the intensity once we get going again. The spikes in intensity on the first lap are difficult to cope with, and something the guys at the front rarely need to go through. So while they are making hay at the sharp end, us near the back are still tooth and nail to gain spots.

The format of the race was interesting, we did 2 half laps first, and the same half of the lap which included the two climbs of the race. So we had to hit 4 steep climbs in the first 20 minutes. It was insane and I was feeling like I had left my best legs in the races in previous weeks. All I wanted to do was to find a rythm and hold it. With such a short lap I wasn't confident of staying on the lead lap, and only half of the riders did. So I made sure I rode as hard as I could and get in as much of the race as I could.

Its kinda tough knowing that your best day is still going to leave you wanting. Then having to battle through having not such a great day makes it even tougher. But to have the opportunity to race for the biggest annual prize in the sport, puts it in perspective.

It has been a brilliant month of travelling and racing. Lots of stories and good times with friends. I hope its been an enjoyable read as its sure been fun bringing it to you.