It was extremely windy and cold at the Bike Races yesterday in Sequim Washington. I was a spectator and was able to enjoy the day regardless of the weather. I could retreat to the shelter of our car to watch the drama – or knit or read. I was watching for son James in his bright blue helmet and Team Apex outfit. Quite easy to spot as most of the other cyclists dropped out after 2 or 3 laps as the weather was so awful.
James’s starting group, Cat(egory) 3 was quite large.
Warming up for the race at the Apex tent
Off they go – Cat 3 group at 9:45.
As they disappear in the distance
My instructions were to expect to see James in about half an hour. He estimated a time of 2 1/2 hours to cycle the 60 miles. 1/2 an hour for each of 5 laps. I had a wave from James after lap 1 or was it 2.
3 hours later here was James
James in the lead (well of 2 riders – I didn’t know how many riders had rounded this corner already or which group they were in – Cat 3, 4, or 5. It was confusing to watch and learn anything. There were 3 groups of riders- Cat 3 started at 9:45, Cat 4 at 9:50, and Cat 5 at 9:55. Cat 3 riders were supposed to do 5 laps round the 12 mile course. Cat 4 4 laps, and Cat 5 3 laps They was a fair degree of overtaking and mixing of the competitors out on the course. And many dropped out.
A good day racewise despite the weather. Cold and very windy but at least it didn’t rain n the rain shadow of Sequim’s location. Several tents were blown down that added to the drama. 
Janet's thread 