Really enjoyed battling with these guys the past week during the deceptively hard @rebeccasprivateidaho Queen’s Stage Race, even if it did cause some sleepless nights. Both @andrewlespy and @brennan.wertz are crazy strong, tough, and experienced racers, which made for a brutal back-and-forth battle. Even though I had the GC lead going into the final 102 mile stage, I was at a bit of a loss as to how to seal the deal. The points system made for a winner-take-all scenario that last day, so I couldn’t just defend a time gap like you usually might. I had to find a way to finish ahead of both these guys. They can both climb and both sprint, so the tricky final ~20 minute drag slightly downhill into a fierce headwind didn’t give me a ton of confidence. I was frustrated enough with the situation on paper that it kept me up most of the night before. The race was a seesaw battle where everyone was on the limit a lot of the day, and things finally exploded for good in the bumpy El Diablito section at mile 80. Over the top of the last climb I put in a dig to create some separation from Brennan, but will admit I hesitated for a moment, fearful of the exact scenario playing out that had kept me up the night before. Things not high on my bike racing wish list: getting into a head-to-head downhill TT drag race with freaking Brennan Wertz☠️. For some reason I just decided to go all-in rather than play it safe, and managed to empty the tank and stay away. It feels really good to finally win a race again (Rule of 3, 2021 feels like ages ago), but really I want to acknowledge @kielreijnen and his daughter Emmy Lou whose incredible ride and fundraising effort for @worldbicyclerelief was the highlight of my week. The last slide here is their podium ceremony and interview. I just can’t wrap my head around what they did. What a special father-daughter duo. I can’t wait to see what they do next. Lastly, thanks to @rebeccarusch and @rebeccasprivateidaho for a wonderful, challenging week. 10 years looks good on you...