DNF

DNF, ala "Did not finish" might conjure a few negative ideas in your head, but to me it means you tried something new and different.  DNF could be the test that brings out the real bike racer in you.  DNF might be something you should try.

As the former NCNCA upgrade coordinator I saw all sorts of requests, but as I poured through results trends jump out... too many people race their strengths!  America is the land of crits, so let's admit that there is a HUGE difference between sitting in the field in a pro/1/2 crit and a long road race.  I'm not suggesting that we have different categories for different disciplines and venues, but getting tossed off the back of a real pro/1/2 road race and ending up with a DNF might just be what you need. 

Pulling in a DNF every once in awhile helps you stay grounded, it helps you play your strengths as a teammate or friend, and it helps to motivate you for the next big race.  You are working on your weaknesses, not just flexing your strengths.  Turning a DNF into something good is not easy and takes time, but above all, bicycle racers are a very determined lot of people.

Cheers, Larry Nolan