A little closer and move to the left to bring the composition a little off center could improve this. It isn't bad the way it is I just think it might be better if it weren't center composed.
An image that demonstates the subject matter of the challenge in spectacular fashion with excellant DOF and color control. Both a technical and artistic success that more than adequately meets the challenge subject in particular with the color shades. A very worthy contender for top ten honors and a possible ribbon contender.
Excellent interpretation of the challenge.
Now if you'd have had a piece of balck card with you this could have been a winner, but that is just based on the
type of shot I like to take.