This race almost wasn't going to be... with everything that happened I was seriously debating on not competing until I thought what Mamasan would say and want me to do? It was to finish what I started and do for me but I know it made her as happy as can be! I raced for her and she was front and center the entire time. This was a very tough and challenging course. A no joke course with what we South Jersey riders would call monster climbs, fast downhills, a few very fast sharp technical turns that made me wondering "what the Hell, am I gonna wipeout?", some bumpy spots that made my legs cry for "Mercy" especially when I took the wrong line and to make matters worse a slight incline the last mile plus of a 10 mile race legs and lungs on fire! One by one I picked off my competition with only one race left, he was first to off and I was last. When I crossed the finish line I was happy with performance felt this was my fastest and strongest race yet! Now it was wait time to see what place I took, Thinking it was first but had an inkling that I could have won? I didn't want to get my hopes up knowing how fast and strong the First racer is and by how much he clobbered me in the two previous races. Fred T one of the racers from our area in the 50+ gave me a thumbs up and said something I couldn't make out and that the results were posted. I went to check it out and to my surprise, I couldn't believe my eyes... JQ Wade 1st place. I could hear Mamasan, yelling and clapping in joy. This race was for her and I'm so happy I could make her happy! My sister and her husband also came to support me. They could only see me start but not finish, I was really happy they were able see me race! This was an amazing adventure that I will cherish for along time to come and by the way this is my first 1st place finish as a cyclist. The adventures never end onwards to the next one! Be safe out there and enjoy your ride...