Independence Cross

Paul's cyclocross hopes and dreams were cut a bit short this year with a shoulder injury (re-injury of the shoulder he had surgery on for AC joint seperation). But, a few weeks post-crash he raced Indpendence Cross in South Jersey and I took pictures.

Before the race we had some time to explore the Cohanzick Zoo (New Jersey's first Zoo), best part it is free AND right next to the race course. 

We were one of the few people there and the zookeeper was kind enough to tell us he was about to feed the porcupine and that we should come see her. I loved this thing, it looked so sweet and I think her name was Dolly.

There were peacocks walking around all over the place (And warning signs that said that during mating season they might attack your car if it's shiny and they see their reflection). 

 

It was really nice just walking through the zoo on a warm Fall morning and holding hands with this guy. I feel like we don't get those moments that often so I really enjoyed it. 

The very best part of this zoo was the white Bengal tiger. I literally watched it for an hour while Paul warmed up for his race. It started stalking me and definitely wanted to eat me. But I loved it so much so it was a slightly complicated relationship we formed in that hour. 

 Bears too! This guy was super lazy and not at all intimidating like the tiger.

This monkey was the tiniest (smaller than my hand) and had a few friends and they were mischievous and awesome. 


Race time finally came (2 hours late) and Paul was ready to go. 

The course was beautiful and fall colored and Paul did great! Top 10 in his new category!

 It was a fun fall day to be a cycling fan!
Hurricane Sandy came a few days later and our weekends haven't been the same since. :)