Again, a nice TWW turnout, among a bunch of people from all the other cool
teams. This was my second NVDC, and the first was as a beginner with many hike
a bikes.

The day started with a stop at Bouchon Bakery in Yountville. Mmmmm. Sorry, I
get distracted by food easily.

A quick warmup, and I was lined up next to Leonard at the start. I witness Matt
almost being taken out on the road, but got away up the right side, and we were
off. Had a couple of bogg down/dismounts, but I thought everything was going
decent until we got to the bottom of Pope Valley. I thought the angwish hill
climb would be easier this second time around, but it still got the better of
me. I cleaned the first couple of steep ups, but I popped about 1/2 way up, and
was just trying to keep moving in the granny. I had to walk a couple of short
sections, which I was hoping I wouldn't. Ouch. M.Urbina passed me and I tried
to give him some encouraging words, but I think I was just too out of breath.

Once we got up top, I was able to get some legs back and picked off a couple of
people, and finished 11th/27ish @1:53+, Cat 2, 19-34. I think I could have
shaved a minute or two off if I didn't pop and have as many dismounts, but
probably not much more than that.

The GF came with me, so afterwards, we strolled around St. Helena and ran into
Levi L. Had some pizza and beer at Tra Vigne. Pretty nice day overall.