Hello all

Well I don’t really know where to start on this post.  It has been a while since I have written and there are good reasons for this.  Straight frustration is probably the nicest way to put it.

I’ll bullet point it from here on in:

* Vuelta finale, a very tough mountain stage in terrible conditions, a lumpy wee time trial that went to plan, and a parade ride into Madrid to end a gruelling three weeks.  Satisfaction all over, self belief pretty damn high, looking forward to end of season races and going into the off season on a positive note.

* 6 days before the World Championships in Mendrisio, it flashed by but the recovery was good and the mental boost of catching up with the kiwis and pulling on a black jersey lifting things again.

* A buzzing atmosphere, very high tension in the peloton, a relentless and super tough course, race on!  All going well, felt comfortable in bunch.  Then boof down, an unknown rider crashes in front of me at the feed-station, get up chase for 2 laps, too late! race over.

* Back home, annoyed but still ok knowing I had recovered well from Vuelta and I had some good races coming up.  Loaded car to head to our new home in Cap Martin on the Cote d’Azur, fizzing on new pad and sea veiw!

* Wednesday.  3 days after Worlds, elbow still a little sore, head into clinic for a check up. Walk out with arm in cast, broken elbow!!!

* Still in disbelief days later, as I prepare to return home with my arm plaster, just like I arrived 8 months ago.

* 2009. Wiped from the cards.  4weeks off. Bring on a better 2010.

* Thanks for all the support this year, I’ll report back with race results next season….

Tim