The final stage of the Redlands Classic is the Sunset circuit race. We start off with 2 short laps of the criterium course in downtown Redlands, then climb up from there for 12 laps of a hilly, twisty, technical circuit. Once that is done, we descend back to the crit course for 5 more laps. On top of this there are sprint points up for grabs on the first small laps as well as King of the Mountain points and time bonus at the top of the climb the first lap. This ensures there is no easing into the days racing.

I managed to be near the front as the climbing started and could see Optum massing at the front to set a hard pace most likely in hope that they could have Will Routely (3rd on GC at 9 seconds) take the 3 second bonus available on the climb. Another purpose this might have served would to to weaken the leaders team (Smart Stop) and force them to defend the lead without reduced numbers.

It ended up being one of, if not the hardest time up the climb in the whole race. I was hurting, but was in the front group  as we passed through the feed zone and began to descend. The next 8 laps or so were run off in a fairly controlled manner, but the tempo was still high, gaps were still opening and a steady stream of riders were spat out the back. Smart Stop appeared to have things under control using their men wisely and not pushing harder then was necessary. Still as the race wound down and the pace picked back up some dangerous riders for the overall got away. An unsuccessful chase meant the the stage win wasn’t up for grabs. However, as things were I was in survival mode a bit the last 2 laps and could not do much more then stay with what was left of the group.  I came in somewhere around 10th I believe. Results were not available just yet.

I must say that definitely counts as a hard day of racing. Lots of climbing, heat, strong winds, and aggressive racing after 4 stages already in the legs. Hopefully the work here puts some fitness in the bank and after some quality rest it might be just the ticket to hit our next races flying. I think all the guys learned a lot this week and can apply it to the rest of the year as there is still lots of racing to come.