Nature Valley Grand Prix preview

The 2009 Nature Valley Grand Prix kicks off tomorrow (Wednesday). This 5-day, 6-stage stage race is one of the most prestigious races in the country. Last year, I raced on the Ryan Collegiate All-Stars composite team. It was my first NRC race and my first stage race. I had a blast and am really looking forward to racing it again this year.

Tomorrow starts off the St. Paul Riverfront 6 mile time trial. Here's the course and profile:
Last year, the time trial was in the middle of the race. This year, it starts the race off. I think it is better the way it is this year. The course is pretty flat, as you can see. However, the last bit is straight uphill. It's a pretty significant climb, and a brutal way to end a hard effort. Racing starts at 8:30am.

Tomorrow evening is the Downtown St. Paul Criterium. The 60minute criterium starts at 6:00pm. Here's what the course looks like:
It's going to be a fast and flat race. Hoping to keep things safe. Last year, rain caused this event to be neutralized after the race (meaning results weren't counted in the General Classification).

Thursday's stage is the Cannon Falls road race. Our race is 60miles. Here's the course:
There's a short gravel section leading into the circuit. Position will be key for this as it does get a bit sketchy. Wind will likely be the deciding factor of this race. Once we hit the final circuit, the women will do 4 laps. The finish ends on a pretty decent climb. I don't remember a whole lot of this race, other than wind and a big field.

Friday's race is the Uptown Minneapolis Criterium. This 60minute race starts at 6:30pm.
Another flat, fast race.

Saturday's stage is the Mankato Road Race. The race is 86miles long, with 4 laps of the finishing circuit.
This is a brutal race. The wind was pretty bad last year and I was put in the gutter most of the race. There's a few good hills, but the finishing circuit is the hardest. Attrition will be key for this stage.

Sunday's stage is the Stillwater Criterium. Last year this was my best race. It's brutal!
The hill is super hard. But I'm looking forward to it :).

Check back throughout the week for updates!
-A