Rainy Roubaix World Cup, January 18, 2009

Where was the sun at 1:30???

The race itself was definitely not the highlight of my trip to Roubaix. Not that it wasn't fun to race in the mud and all, and start, finish and ride in the velodrome, but the post race, shower in the Roubaix showers was almost better than racing. Check it out at www.monavie-cannondale.com

Roubaix's version of Portland's drum corp. Note the dog at their feet.

Another highlight, host housing. Well, it wasn't exactly some strange family in France, but rather my friend Pams twin sisters family. They lived 6 km from the course. Who would've thunk? It was great to have the French hospitality and get to speak English. And have an extra 5 people on course cheering me on, despite my less than desired performance. You can read all about it at Cyclocross Magazine.

Muddy buddies: Tristan, Laura and Sasha.

And the King & Queen of the palace: Andrea & Cyril

I stayed an extra night to spend some more time with the family, and because Andrea is a great cook. Dinner was great and then the 'between' course (between dinner and dessert), was of course, cheese. Hmmm? Must be in France. We had Roquefort cheese, handmade and purchased directly in Rouquefort. Yummy stuff. Best blue cheese I have had to date. Dad, are you jealous???

And that was my rainy weekend in Roubaix! Here's a short video of the muddy fun! Enjoy!