Man, what a day! I swear, Valognes is wild. I woke up thinkin’ it’d be just another boring race day. But nah, not in this town.
First off, I’m cruisin’ down Rue de la République, right? The sun’s blazin’, and I’m feelin’ good. Got my lucky cap on, the one I always wear when I ride. I’m thinkin’, “Today’s the day!” But then, BAM! I hit a pothole. Like, seriously? Who’s in charge of these roads? I almost flew off my bike!
So I get to the track, and it’s packed. I mean, people everywhere. I spot my buddy, Pierre, by the stables. He’s got that goofy grin, you know? He’s like, “You ready to win?” I’m like, “Dude, I’m always ready!” But inside, I’m a bundle of nerves.
Then, I see the horses. Oh man, they’re beautiful. But there’s this one, a chestnut named “Flashy.” He’s got attitude. I swear he rolled his eyes at me. I’m like, “You think you’re better than me?” But I can’t help but laugh.
Race time rolls around. I’m on my horse, and the crowd’s goin’ nuts. I can hear them shoutin’ from Rue de l’Église. It’s electric! But then, outta nowhere, this guy trips and falls right in front of us. I’m like, “What the heck, man?!” I almost lost my balance.
The race starts, and I’m off! Wind in my hair, heart racin’. I’m in the lead, feelin’ like a champ. But then, Flashy decides he’s had enough. He starts slowin’ down. I’m yellin’, “C’mon, buddy! Don’t quit on me now!” But he’s just lookin’ around like he’s at a picnic or somethin’.
I’m fumin’. I can see the finish line, and I’m like, “No way I’m losin’ to this lazy horse!” So I give him a little kick. He finally gets it and sprints! We’re neck and neck with this other horse, and I’m thinkin’, “This is it!”
We cross the finish line, and I’m pumped! But wait—what’s this? I look over, and the other jockey’s givin’ me the stink eye. Like, dude, chill! It’s just a race!
After the race, I’m tryin’ to catch my breath. I head over to the café on Rue de la Liberté. I need a drink. I order a café crème, and the barista, she’s super nice. She’s like, “You rode well today!” I’m like, “Thanks! But my horse almost gave up on me!” We both laugh, and it’s a nice moment.
But then, I see this old man outside, just starin’ at me. He’s got this wild beard and a hat that looks like it’s been through a war. He shouts, “You call that ridin’? My grandma rides better!” I’m like, “Okay, grandpa, let’s see you try!”
I’m leavin’ the café, still buzzin’ from the race. I stroll down Rue de la Gare, thinkin’ about how crazy today was. I mean, who knew Valognes could be so intense? I pass by the old church, and it hits me—this town’s got character.
I finally head home, exhausted but happy. I can’t wait to tell everyone about my day. Valognes, you’ve got my heart. But seriously, fix those potholes!