So I started stage two yesterday after debating whether or not I should start given my current health conditions.
 
With a wind advisory in effect in Riverside county it was going to make for some really hard racing.
The first 20k was crazy. We had a tail wind that pushed us over 70k an hour. I was more scared then, than I am in the finale of a sprint bumping and fighting for wheels.
 
Anyway, the race started fast, then went slow as we turned right into the 40mph headwind.
My legs were feeling really good but with the chest burning I was having a difficult time breathing.
The first time up, the climb was really fast and I didn't know what to expect so I found a good wheel and just followed it.
 
The second time up the climb, we went pretty slow but as we got to the flat part of the course heading back toward the start finish Team Ouch hit the front in the cross wind section that split the 200 man field into about 4-5 different groups. I made the main split which looked to be about 65 guys.
I feel if the cross wind sections were 3-4k longer the group could have perhaps stayed away and or could have been more selective.
 
Now we are on the 3rd time up the climb and I'm really uncomfortable however I'm about 1k from the top and I crossed wheels with Brad Huff and crashed.
I got right back up and found a group that was about 30 seconds behind the lead group. We chased for about half a lap and got back on right at the first climb.
 
In the final lap going up the hill I really had a hard time breathing so I made a decision to just chill and ride to the finish and not put myself in more trouble.
 
I felt good about the race and I know I'm on the right track to peak at my target dates.