Aaron Bradford - Blog: February 2011

After months of long early season miles on the bike, I was reward with a extensive race season packed with solid results. Trips to Ashland OR for the Spring Thaw and the Ashland 12 mile, Downieville along with Crankworx proved to be an amazing time. I was hoping for more at MTB nationals though I had one of those weekends. It’s all good though because the following week I took 6 days to get back to Santa Cruz, stopping in Crested Butte and Flagstaff enjoying amazing trails with good company along the way.

With cross I had my ups and downs though my fitness throughout the season improved overtime which was extremely motivating. I landed on the top step a couple times and a couple times just off it. It's all training for the big day at nationals anyways, although I would have liked to have a solid ride at Golden Gate Park this year; something about that venue that kicks ass.

Although I missed out this year on heading back east to catch up with my friends in North Carolina to race the NCCX UCI races, I did have an unforgettable trip to Michigan for Iceman. If you have never experienced the Iceman mountain bike race, add this event to the “to-do” list as it truly is unique.

With another cylocross season over and in the record books, the fun urban venues of Santa Cruz and Frisco, along with the heckling and beer handoffs will have to wait until the start of the 2011 season. See you all at StarCross and the Rad Racing GP in September.

This season I met tons of new people at the race venues, on the road, and everywhere in between. Thanks Sheila Moon for the rad cycling clothing. Also, thanks Family Cycling Center in Santa Cruz and Off the Chain bikes in Hollister for keeping my bike rolling all season long. Thanks to Sonny at Enduro Bearings and Easton for sending over a set of the dialed Haven wheels. Thanks to SRAM for keeping me rolling at the races and updating my bike with all the flawless 10 speed stuff. I had lots of fun times riding and racing my Specialized Stumpjumper, Enduro and Tricross. It feels good showing up a race knowing I have the fastest bike available. Lastly, thanks to my dad for motivating me when I’m in a slump and my mom (Suza Marie) for being behind the lens taking photos and being my number one fan. With the help of many, it makes it possible for me to continue pursing my passion.

Here are a handful of photos from 2010

Temporarily leading Justin Robinson through the barriers

Bike loaded for a 4 day adventure north on Hwy 1

Iceman crew, good stuff

Nationals singlespeed race hearing words of encouragement from Mr. Riley. Rocking a unique and totally bitchin' Rock Lobster Singlespeed. Credit Lyne Lamoureux