Ride for Heroes 2013

4.20.13

The next ride scheduled was the Ride for Heroes in Aledo on 4.20.13. (http://rideforheroes.org/). I registered for the 75 mile ride, which was the longest option. I got of to a good start and felt great.  However, at about the 30 mile mark, I felt the beginning of some cramping in my left quad. I thought little of it, continued to hydrate, and consumed bananas and pickles at the rest stops to combat. However, the issue only got worse, causing me to stop and stretch multiple times, and, on the last long hill, walk the bike for a bit.  I took advantage of the last bail out, and continued on the 64 mile route, shaving 11 miles off of the total distance.  I even considered sagging back, but, pushed through and finished in the saddle.   Between the winds and the cramping, I was proud that I was able to finish strong.  After the ride, I researched several electrolyte supplements, and have since started using them on long rides. I have noticed vast improvement as a result.  Here are a picture taken early in the ride:

The stats: 64.43 miles in 4:28:55. 14.4 mph and 3988 calories burned. A slow, painful ride.