Traditional Season Openers on Tap

For the past 8 years central Indiana racers have kicked off their seasons with the Ceraland Circuit Race in Columbus, Indiana. Through the years, weather has typically played a role in the outcome. In 2002, heavy rains actually forced cancellation of a race in progress. The soggy course caused numerous slideouts and near-crashes. A temperature of sub-fifty degrees accentuated the term 'white knuckle' racing that day.

More often, however, the wind is a deciding factor in the race's outcome. Strong and sometimes even fierce winds limit the ability of any breakaway to remain separated from the peloton. Except for the Category 1,2 race, most races end in a bunch sprint, so plan your personal or team strategy accordingly. In windy conditions, it's not the strongest rider who wins, but rather, the smartest. Use your energy wisely.

You've trained well through the winter so you can afford to take a little wind in the final couple of laps when the jostling for position reaches its peak. For the Ceraland course, it is better to be in the wind and have a clear shot to sprint rather than being tucked in 8 back. In the latter position, you could easily be boxed in and end up sprinting for 4th, or 1st OFF the podium.

Next Sunday's race takes place in Mooresville's Pioneer Park, the first course ever utilized by the Indiana Race Series. Nearly 20 years of racing action has given the park legendary status among the kyiana racing scene. Unlike Ceraland where the smartest racer wins, Pioneer Park's pack splitter separates the wheat from the chaffe - the strong man or woman wins on this course.

Positioned on the calendar in mid-April, you can bet that every time over the Pack Splitter, you'll be facing a stiff wind from the north/northwest. The strongest riders will separate themselves from the peloton early in the race and continue building their lead throughout the race.

In the event of a pack finish, a great leadout is a key factor in winning this race. If you have designs on winning this classic, you'll need to be about 4 or 5 back coming down the backstretch hill. By the time you hit the base of the pack splitter you could well find yourself on the front. Remember my #1 rule for racing: Hesitation kills. This is no time to be looking for wheels. When you hit the base of the hill on the final lap you better open up all jets and fly up the hill. Usually, the rider who hits the hill first wins the race, so plan accordingly for Sunday's race.

I'll be cheering you all on.