I won't be the one left behind

You can't be king of the world

If you're slave to the grind

Tear down the rat racial slime

Can't be king of the world

If you're slave to the grind

-Skid Row '91

I don't know how many blogs I can start off by saying how busy things are, or "its been a whirlwind" before I even get sick of hearing it, but I'll definitely be putting my nose to the grind stone these next couple weeks.

On the US Cup series front, our Kenda Cup West Series presented by Specialized opens up on the 28th of February at the Sage Brush Safari. Long hailed as one of the funnest course's in Southern California, the Sage Brush is a flash back to the days of longer loops with a wide variety of terrain. Rolling moto trails with Whoop-De-Doo's, bermed corners, fast fire roads, rocky drops and a climb to Los Pino's mountain make this a must attend event. And with the recent rains, the dirt is setting up to be in epic condition!

In regards to the team, things are coming together with product, bikes, clothing trickling in before the season hits. My guys Max and Sid, being seasoned veterans have a pretty dialed in schedule that allows me to focus on other criteria, without worrying if there training or sitting on the couch eating Tim Tam's. With Sid currently training back home in OZ and Max in Arizona with the Canadian Cycling team, its been perfect timing while I have my head buried in other projects.

On a personal level, I've been back in "Bike" mode, trying to get my fat ass in shape for a little racing this spring. So why not just add more work to my plate and make the US Cup opener at Sage Brush my first race back in over 18 months….don't mind if I do!

I must confess getting off the bike and then trying to restart after any considerable time off is the most miserable experience. If you had any sort of fitness or form, and then take time off, you can kiss it good bye! And unlike Moto, where you can get your timing back in a few weeks of riding, the bicycle has a cruel way to humble you!

So to keep things in perspective I'm going to set realistic goals. If I can at least match the speed of Specialized 29 R&D bad boy Eric Schuda, which word on the street has him winning his first MTB race of 2010 already, I'll be stoked.

At this point, to think I could topple the "Beast", Bobby Behan is a bit unrealistic, given the stories I have heard about the guys athletic prowess. I had the "Enforcer" Ben Capron in my cross hairs, but I recant that statement and don't want nothing to do with the 2009 CAT 1 US Cup 30-34 Champ, who now moves up to the CAT 1 40-44 group!

So here's to hoping I don't go embarrass myself, Sho-Air/Specialized, or my adoring fans with this "mini comeback"!

But that's half the fun of this sport, right? The challenge, the bike mocking you at times, and the progression you can see and feel.

Until next time, get out and ride.

The Red Cowboy.