Yeehaar!!

Well the Merida has come and gone and what a ball tearer of a race it was.
The course was sensational due to the awesome work of Pete. Hayden and their merry band of helpers.
I really did not know what to expect from myself but went out with my usual action plan.
First lap saw me riding with Gary who I have raced against a number of times, with Rach and Nick only metres up the track.
Coming through to Airplane I just thought I was feeling a bit quicker and headed off on my own.
Each of my laps I still felt strong although a little off my chops and a niggly knee pain that I kept telling myself would settle down.
I kept checking for Gary and Nick who I felt would be some of my strongest competition but no sign. The only solo in my category that I did see was Clint Pearce who I think overtook me about 10 times in 9 laps. An absolute machine.
Came in from my 12th lap with the realisation that this knee pain was in fact ITB pain. Spent some time massaging my leg and also changed my shoes in case it was being caused from cleat position.
Decided I was good to go and pedalled off. From the first pedal stroke I knew it was not but just hoped that it would be OK and would somehow cure itself.
Rode down the hill and through the berms to the dam but quickly learned on the first incline that I was stuffed as I could barely turn the pedals. Basically I had left myself with 2 options. Keep going and ride another 13km or turn around and head back 1km. I decided 1km sounded better and rode back up the hill wincing the whole way.

I was extremely happy with how I was riding and felt great but ITB is a bitch and basically I was left with no option.
It hurts to be running 2nd and then have to pull out but shit happens and then you die.
I am now looking to try different pedals as I never had these problems until I started using Shimano.
Then again I have spent the last 3 week (2 days a week) getting my back almost sorted and I have to wonder whether this has had a knock on effect.

Next time.

Massive, massive thanks to each and every person who came and helped out in the Koiled tent.
Special thanks to Shannon and Jezza for keeping the bikes running even though I could not.