If one is the lonliest number... OR race report for the Super D at Vail Lake, Temecula CA

Then what is 4? Fourth place that is, because that is what I finished in my class racing today.

The great:
-MY NEW TRUCK worked perfectly. It helped just making my pit area nice.
-I received lots of good comments on my custom helmet.
-The actual course was fun and fast. My two pre-runs really helped me get up to speed. Of which I now have a new measurement for what "fast" is on a mountain bike. Practicing with a couple pro's just showed me how fast one can really go.
-I hit all the jumps just fine.
-I helped someone who wrecked badly with my new EMT training. That was really cool to assess a trauma patient in real life. The race organizer gave me a certificate for a free bike tune-up for helping the guy.
-Everyone was really nice.

The so-so:
-I did just fine, but I am not entirely happy with a mass start for a downhill race.
-My preregistration was not found, causing a slight headache at the first part of my day.
-I got a little too much sun on my neck and forehead.
-I wish these trails were closer than a 45 minute (no traffic) drive to my house.
-No t-shirt for the race.
-The leather number plates are very unique, but I wanted like a "real" one since I supposedly was in a "real" race. And mine had one of the numbers on backwards.
-Course signage could have been improved, this would be crucial later.

The bad:
-I came in 4th place in my class. Why should I be mad?? I mean, the other guys are great guys and all but I beat myself. At the bottom of a steep chute I bobbled and was confused for a second about the direction of the course, so much so I almost came to a complete stop. My lead was blown!!! I totally worked my race plan, I lead at the start, the hike a bike and from practice I was better at the jumps than the other beginners. But my hesitation killed it. I was running a very strong second place and these two guys caught me and passed me there. Poof! They had momentum and I had none. Dang it!!!! It was embarrasing to have to stand on the grass next to the podium in 4th place when I had 2nd locked up so strongly, it seemed. Live and learn. To the two guys that passed me, I'll see you at the next race and believe me it won't happen again. =)
-I didn't give very good directions for filming and photos so I just don't have any to post that really capture what it was like to be in the race.
-Due to the heat and being behind schedule we lost one practice run. I think one more run would have totally solidified the course in my mind. Oh well, race and learn.