Host housing wasn't too bad.

Warming up and eyeballing the competition.

Tess gets her sugar levels sorted at the start.

Great course, but spectating was a lot like finding Waldo.

"Be fearless on the descents" was the best advice we got before the race (thanks Paolo and Eleanor!) It was a big reason we decided to go with a straight bar, and it paid off: Ella blasted past at least two racers down the hills.

Pro trick #2: Ella's wearing modified 'ice grippers' on her shoes. We brought them in case of ice (way ahead of you Tati!) but they were brilliant in warmup. The traction was supreme, and they kept her cleats up out of the mud.

The finishing straight!

Host housing (aka Aunt Nancy) is waiting at the finish line.

The first time that 'Chicago Cuttin Crew' has been announced at the award ceremony in a National (sanctioned) event. Arms up girl! Enjoy the moment!

ChiCross girls represent! Ella: 3rd place, 10-12, Skylar Schneider and Gina Johnson: 2nd & 5th in 13-14. (Ella, I know you're not the showboating type, but you don't have to put your medal in your pocket ten seconds after you win it.)

Seriously, I really need a picture of you with your medal...ok, fine. Dad will shut up now.