In 2012, this was my 1st bike rally ever. I rode 57 miles on a hybrid that day, and, as they say, the rest is history.
I'd missed this ride the past 2 years due to racing conflicts, but, was glad to be back.
I planned to ride the 100k for this one, as my saddle time had still been lacking over the summer.
Lindsi, the boys, and I stayed with James and Lesli on Friday night, so as to make Saturday morning a little easier.
We were up and out the door early, and, to the race sight with plenty of time to get race packets and prep bikes. We aired up tires and were about ready to go, when we ralizedthat I'd left Lindsi's helmet at James and Lesli's house. The shorter routes were scheduled to roll 45 minutes after the 100k, so, she would have plenty of time.
I found a spot near the middle of the pack and waited for the 7:30 start. As per usual, I planned to no stop the ride, and planned to try and push the pace.
The route changed slightly from last time I participated, with us heading out to John King, riding a few miles, turning back, riding through a corporate park (weird), and then heading out to the previous route.
I quickly remembered how much I like this event. The roads are far better than most of the area bike rallies. After getting through the 1st 5 congested miles, I averaged just shy of 20 mph for the next 15. The bike was rolling great, I was blowing past lots of cyclists, and I was spending a lot of time in the aero position. By mile 25, I'd finished my 1st aero bottle and needed to pee, so, I made an unplanned stop at the 25 mile rest stop. I refilled my aero bottle and peed, and checked in on Lindsi. She had gotten started, but, her bike was not rolling well. She was going to try and continue, but, was struggling a bit. I headed back out and averaged about 19.5 for the next 10. I stopped quickly to check on Lindsi again...she was having a mechanic look at her bike. She was thinking she may have to sag back. I continued on and followed all signs towards the finish. I reached the finish line at mile 48.6. Apparently, there was supposed to be another loop somewhere, but, I never saw it. A point of frustration, as I'd planned on the 100k. Poor course marking by the organizers. Lindsi finally sagged back. Fortunately, it was a minor bike issue. She was still able to complete about 30 miles.
All in all, a good day for me. The stats: 48.6 miles, 1467 ft of climbing, 18.4 pace. I'll take it.
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