Bike Racing in Downtown Omaha

Emily was serious about her first USCF race, the Junior Women's 10-13 State Championship Criterium.

Sunday was a big day for Emily and Lauren. Dad invited all the girls to participate in the kids races at the Dave Babcook Memorial Stage Race in Downtown Omaha. Initially, all four of the older girls took him up on the invitation. But ultimately, only Lauren and Emily participated.

Emily actually got a taste of some big-time bike racing. Dad registered her for the Jr. Women's division (ages 10-13), of which there were two competitors - Emily and Marie Brackenbury. Emily has a Team Kaos jersey, which she wore, along with her black shorts that say "Cutie" on the butt. (We're pretty sure no one else had a sponsor with the name "Cutie" involved.)

Emily's race was three laps of a half-mile course. Riding on a single-speed bike against Marie (who was on a mountain bike), Emily found her biggest challenge to be the hill going up from the start/finish line. But she made it every time and finished second. She also won a gift certificate from Bike Masters, as well as the silver medal for the 2006 state championship.

Lauren also exceeded our expectations. Lined up to race 100 yards, she flew through the finish line (in third place) and kept going. And going. Right up the big hill. Over one block. Down a 25 mph downhill and into the 150-degree turn to the finish. We couldn't believe it. Even Uncle Neil tried to chase her down to tell her she had already finished. But instead, she kept on riding and got a big round of applause as she crossed the finish line - again.