North Shore Classic crit went around the parking lot near the Heinz stadium in Pitsburgh, with four corners that weren't too bad to navigate on the half-mile course. The women's 1234 field was about 22 deep and included at least one Cat 1. Perfect conditions, nice course, well organized race.
To spice up the race organizers added a "Mst Agressive Rider" award (paying $50)for the woman who crossed the line first the most number of times during the 40-lap crit, awarding a point for every time a racer crossed the line first. Each lap there was a surge for the line, increasing the pack's speed. Then after the line the pace slowed back down again. Although a few tried, no one could get a break away going. Althouh I moved toward the front a few times, most of the race I hung in the back saving my energy (for later in this race and the following day's Murrysville race) so I waited until the end to do anything.
I decided to make a move in the last lap. I moved up to Katerine, but couldn't get her attention. So I took off about one-third of the way through the lap, taking everyone (including myself) by surprise when I ended up out front with a bit of a lead as we neared the finish line. I hung on almost to the line but was passed by three racers just about on the line, each of whom was very close. Katherine was right there, too. After the race I realized what perfect timing I had. Other girls were planning their move and my early leap took them all by surprise.
I finshed 4th, but felt good about the event. Won $30. Tri Tech's Jane Cokerly (?) was awesome. She won both the Agressive Rider award and first place. Quite impressive how she surged every single lap, but had enough left to catch me at the end. Even more impressive was her team mate who helped her win -- age 62(but rode like she was 22!)
