The race was an 18.8km lap starting and finishing in Sion.  It was actually the same course the Tour of Romandie used for their 3rd stage.  (The men raced after we did.)  The lap started and stayed flat for about 8-10km, followed by about 3-5k’s climbing with a short, steep kick toward the top, and then a very fast but not very technical final 5km’s down to the finish.

I did not get a chance to ride or see the course the day before, since we had traveled 900km by car and did not arrive early enough.  However, prior to my warm up, we drove it, and then I rode it one time.  I did my best to soak in the details, the feel, and to come up with a pacing strategy.  Thankfully, I was able to.  I had a very good ride.  I was mentally dialed in, and I found a good rhythm immediately.  I finished 3rd behind C. Soeder and K. Armstrong.  It was a big race and a big podium, especially considering the field and the potential events coming later this year.

The region of the race was unbelievable; the views were spectacular.  Everywhere I turned I was greeted by the jagged, white, magnificent edges of the ALPs.  The steep foothills to the north were carved with rows and rows of vineyards, while off to south I could see villages and funicular lines jetting straight up.

I have to say that I was very much in awe of God’s creation as I just stared at its beauty.  Sometimes I cannot believe how blessed I am to have the opportunity to do what I do.  For some reason God gave me the ability and chance to race a bike.  I cannot sing or dance or speak multiple languages.  I am not a doctor saving lives, or a teacher changing them.  However, I have an athletic ability which I sure enjoy using.  And hopefully, in the process, I can impact lives in small ways.

Yeah… and every once in a while I get to stand on the podium.

For I.S. … Ps 19:1

Tour de Berne WC report and phots coming next.