Coming off the positive result from the MCA Elimination race on Tuesday, I was set to take part in the second track instalment of the Ontario Cup. Unlike the first event which I took part in only the points race, this time I would compete in the points, scratch and elimination races over two days. With each having there own qualification heats, a lot of racing was to be had should I qualify for each event.
Having been rushed in previous races, I took a half day vacation and made my way to Milton with a good amount of time to spare to prepare and warm-up. For me it became apparent I needed a good hour to an hour and a half to be race ready otherwise my legs just would not respond to the pace and intensity. The results of the weekend confirmed that.
I qualified for each event although I admit; it was not all that easy to do. The elimination race qualification in particular was very fast and I found myself stuck on the back and on the verge of being eliminated every second lap. A mistake I was sure not to make in the final. The points final too was very fast and blew apart with guys taking multiple laps. I was left with no laps taken nor points but took solace in the fact I gave a good sprint to take 2nd with 10 laps to go only to find out after the race, my placing would not be awarded as I was considered a dropped rider. The elimination final was a good event, finishing 7th yet I admit, I was hoping for a better result given my performance on Tuesday night. The scratch final however was my break-out result finishing 5th and being in the mix on the final sprint. It was an exhilarating final and definitely boosted my confidence with the Ontario Provincial Championships coming up in two weeks time. Check out the video of the final with me the all black kit and finishing 4th in the final sprint. The winner was just 50 meters in front of us.
