The Mighty Ostrich
By Steven Barnes
Eric Ostrich Ostendorff was a striking sight indeed, with the numbers "508" stenciled onto each flank of his head. His racing equipment is no less impressive, with two sleek Trek carbon fiber steeds awaiting his pleasure. One is optimized for high speed, the other for climbing. Looking at the bikes, the triple crank setup and 11x32 cassette on the first tells you all you need to know. Ostrich is out for a high placing and this calls for the best bike for each of two very different jobs.
Ostrich on the subject of eating, when I happen to see canned pasta in his kit: "If I see a 7-11 along the way, I'll stop for a chili dog." When he says that the sight of his food makes the other riders less enthusiastic about eating, he knows that there are lots of chances for things to go wrong in 508 miles of racing. At least he won't be worrying about his stomach.
On a more serious note, Ostrich recalls that, in the 2003 FC508, he chased a passing rider who later abandoned. He vows that there will be no such error this time. You see that the Ostrich is not only knowing, he is also wise when he points out that there is always a new and unexpected error ready to trip up the unwary. Gone is the outsized "Hot Wheels" crank from last year. In its place we find a more experienced, more determined Ostrich.
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