Some kids have been watching too many Belgian kermesses, or their coaches have something to prove, and immediately serve up some hurt. They probably whispered the plan to each other while waiting on the fence. The surprise hit out catches half the large field off guard and two packs circle the infield like sharks surrounding a school of fish.

Flying into each bank forces the bike up the track. I drop my shoulders to keep it railing the black line, all the while saving precious energy by drafting the leading riders. Lead swings up as we approach turn three, then second wheel, obviously already found out by the pace and unwilling to do a turn. I find myself on the front. I motor hard, tucking even lower to split the wind that roars past my ears. I can sense that another few hard turns by our gruppo and we will have reeled in the leaders.

San Marco