The Army Spring Classic

For those of you ever given the privilege of racing in this historic race, take it. 

The Army Spring Classic, held at The United States Military Academy, is unanimously thought of as the greatest race the ECCC road season has to give up. A crushing 66.5 mile road race for the A riders on day one, three mile hill climb on day two, and it is all capped off on day two with The Shea Stadium Criterium. The only crit where you can see a whole laps worth of carnage from one spot.... and there was blood.

---Day 1----

All of Lehigh's riders agreed upon the outcome on the road race, "It sucked....hard." Even though only a few of Lehigh's brave survived the entire distance, we were ecstatic with the results. Both Brandons pulled in huge finishes, especially Brandon K, who contested what was probably the fastest field sprint of the year Read: 50 mph, for a 4th place finish in A's. 

When asked about how fast he was going, all he was able to say was , "If I looked at my speedo, I would have probably died."

---Day 2----

While day one brought much misery on unparalleled levels,  day two also promised a sufferfest. Dave who babied out the first day luckily had fresh legs and was ready to take on the hill climb ITT. With a fantastic result of 7th place, and Brandon O. Close behind in 11th. We were all ready for the crit.

With the A's being speedfreaks, B's being lazy A'riders, and C's being a bloodbath. The crit was sure not to disappoint. First C's

After watching an epic crash right before going off the line, the riders were definitely a little shaky  Dave managed to keep good position at the front the entire race, but took a bad line at the end and was boxed in at the finished. Nothing he could do... Except maybe ride a little faster

B's: Fast as hell, close as hell, and with Riders constantly breaking away; the pace never relented. Kevin held in there and gave it his best effort. But in the end eventually had to toss in the card's.

When asked for a comment, all he could muster up was some heavy breathing.

A's: As always, Brandon further impressed us with his riding. He was able to keep towards the front for the entire race, and was again in contention for the gut wrenching field sprint. In the end, no podium, but still a great result for a brand new A rider. 8th!

This race is always one to be remembered, and is always a pleasure to attend. All-in-all the best weekend of racing this year. (Besides Road Natties that is)

Shea Stadium Criterium, Dave at the front. | Photo by Kris Flynn