I am the only American on the start list, along with one Brazilian and a ton of Mexicans. I've been told that the Mexicans have a lot of country pride and always race well at home. Athletes to watch on the start list include Sergio Sarmiento, Crisanto Grajales, Reinaldo Colucci, David Mendoza, all of which have either Pan-American or World Cup podiums on their resumes. Start list
I'm looking forward to my first trip to Mexico, racing or otherwise. I'll need to be careful with what I eat and drink, as Mexico doesn't have the same food regulations as the US, and I'll be racing again the following weekend in Florida. A stomach bug could spell extreme dehydration and a very low chance of a strong performance at the second race.
The Florida race is in Sarasota (also a PanAm Cup), and will be much more familiar, with the majority of the field being Americans. Obviously logistics will be simpler as well, with the grocery stores, pre-race briefing and so on being in English. Race site.....Start list There are too many names to watch on this start line, all capable of a great race, but all eyes will certainly be focused on young American star Lukas Verzbicas, who has a run pedigree second to none and a 2012 World Cup win to his credit.
I want to take a moment to thank John Barnes for providing me with the plane tickets to these races, without his contribution, I would be writing another blog about how well training is going and how "I can't wait to race soon." You're the man!
I'll put up an update on the races when I've got something to report :)
