Day 4 - Menonomie Road Race

June 19^th - Saturday’s Menonomie road race loomed ahead and as a new event in the 2010 tour, we knew it was going to be hard as the GC remained very tight after Friday. Featuring six steep climbs ranging from 1-1.6km topping out at 15%, the 100 mile course wound its way through smooth and scenic county roads which made for a great ride when coupled with the high number of twists, turns and small towns. Mike and Roman jumped in a bunch of early moves but unfortunately none stuck. At mile 50, riders were greeted with an unmarked gravel section that threw a curveball at the race. Some riders flatted which placed the Shimano neutral service off the back of the race when Ben’s brake came loose 5km later. Rubbing against the tire, Ben had to stop and although he chased for the remaining 40miles, his top 5 amateur position was gone. Once in the final circuits around town, Roman and Taylor helped Mike snag 7^th in the bunch kick to the line. Going into the final day at Stillwater, Roman and Taylor remained 3^rd and 6^th in the Young Riders while Taylor moved up to 4^th in the Amateur (Roman and Mike could not be classified as Amateur in 2010 because LandRover-Orbea was a licensed pro team in 2009. Amateurs must be unaffiliated with a pro team for three years before they can race in the amateur classification).

Joe and John joined Norrene in the caravan

Roman being serious as usual

Roman being serious for real in the

finishing circuits after 85 miles in the countryside

Roman and Taylor position Mike well, helping him go 7th in the stage finale

Tired Riders