Riding, its 90% mental…
The Come Back Kid was at it again this weekend. Honing his skills and mentally preparing to start racing downhill once again. Read up on Wes “GQ” Castro’s ride report at a near by DH trail.-RL Policar
Well I rode a Super Secret DH Trail in OC and I had a blast, after the first run that is. My first run was a disaster in the upper section. At first I was OK, but on the lower section as I passed the double step down and come into the single shoot towards the end, there is a right turn that I needed to make. Let’s just say I panicked and hit the eject button and went into the bushes. I said to myself, ” wow that really played on my mind”.
I get back up and head down the rest of the way as I get to the bottom I placed my bike down and just sat on a rock and contemplated the rest of the day, Art Aguilar comes over to check on me and gives me a few words of encouragement and some advise. At that point I make up my mind and head out for a second run. So here I go second run with Art’s advise echoing in my head and the run was smooth slow but smooth (The term “Slow-Moetion came to mind). As time went on, my third and fourth runs where great, I actually got faster as the day continued. Special thanks to Art and my friend Max for the encouragement and support. So no rush here, but I will say November race it’s ON and I’ll be ready.
By the way the Sette Vexx was solid, wow what a performer,very stable, stiff ( where it matters) and best of all what a monster on jumps, Oh yes towards the end I was jumping. This bike kicks butt as it soaks up the rough sections and the rock gardens it rolled very smooth. Thanks to all those that made that bike possible!!!
Wes you did an awesome job this weekend and I had fun with you guys.
That first run was crazy but Art thanks for the advise and calming me down. And of course Max for always being there. Lets do it again!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wes, when I returned from my injury, I was really apprehensive too. I even bought extra armor to feel a little more secure. My fear showed in my first Race in Fontana, I was about 45 seconds back from Joe and I came in dead last. For my subsequent races, I had to shake my fear and really trust myself and my bike, my times dramatically decreased to about 9 seconds behind Joe. So my advice to you is to trust yourself and ride within your limits, you are a talented rider and you will be in the podium really soon.
Thanks Moe I’m just going to take it slow and train as much as I can. I want to ne as ready as I can for November.