Ok, so here’s the deal:
I’m GOING!!

After much talk with friends and family, almost everyone feels I should go. I did go back to my doctors and demand an answer if this was okay and they all felt that it would not hurt things as long as I do not make this lifestyle of hard training a constant in my life forever. I asked if I can train hard during the next two months and they seemed to be ok with that. This means I have two months to get ready. It also means cutting massively on my "Roadfood" joints. [:(] On the other hand, I won’t cut everything out. I do plan to stop at places such as Blue Benn Diner in Bennington, VT as well as Dot’s in Wilmington, VT. In fact, I plan to eat at Dot’s the morning before my race. This means that I will be fueled by Roadfood and you guys and gals will be with me!!

To everyone here who has given me good advice, here is what I have to say to your comments;

Jeepguy – this is exactly the attitude I am now taking. No excuses!

MiamiDon – This is GREAT advice and the REAL reason I have been thinking this over so seriously. My son is #1 and I can’t wait to spend the rest of my life with him!

BhamBabe – You’re a sweetie and you are right (as always)

Salustra – This is exactly why I am going. One last hurrah [8D]

TonyBad – Hand ’em over! I need as many suggestions as possible. I will be there for 4 days with lots of time to eat.

roosy90 – "Photos are a must" means GO!! I’ve gotten to know you well enough to know how you think! Pictures and VIDEOS will be on their way after the weekend.

GB944 – George, a farewell tour won’t be happening for quite some time but a shot at the National Championships against the very best MTB Racers this country has to offer is too much to give up. Only a select few racers even get an invitation. I have to see how good these guys are in my class to know for far I’ve come. As for hamburgers in upstate NY, that is just the right protein I am looking for on this trip! [:p]

Greymo – That is the attitude I took before I heard bad news from the doctors. I would NEVER compete in anything "for the experience" but things have changed in my life now. Just being a part of this is awesome enough because I am regarded as one of the best MTB racers in the US. Being surrounded by the other "bests" in the country is good enough reason to take part. Don’t worry, I will give it my 100% and I still have a few tricks up my sleeve [:I]

rouxdog – You are exactly right and this is why I pressed them to the point where I was going to give my business to someone else. They know they want to help me and they also know that they need my $ in order to pay for their hobbies too [:(!]

Jimeats – very well said. Agreed!

If anyone has any additional Roadfood suggestions, I am all ears!