The Countdown Starts

The nerves are getting a little shaky and life has been quite a challenge, but here we are with ~42 days until the starting shotgun is fired at Leadville. Physically I don't know how much more preparation I can do for the race, but I know there's plenty of time to blow it all. I'm still doing by scheduled weekday intervals, but the weekend rides seem way too short. How are 3 to 5 hour ride supposed to prep me for an 8 to 12 hour race? So I'm extending the distance on those rides. Saturday was a 5 hour jaunt around Lake Casitas and I felt pretty good but it's clear to me that I need to get more long distance rides under my belt. By mile 60 my ass hurt, by mile 70 I was slowing down and my legs were tired. So I'm getting closer and I know I could finish a hundred miler tomorrow, but it wouldn't be pretty. Including tomorrow I basically have 5 weekends left to prepare.

I've pared my equipment choices down and am close to having a final setup, but now there is a crack in my frame. I don't think it a huge problem, but the boys at Trek Bike of Ventura are going to try and get me a replacement in time for the race. Otherwise I'll race the cracked one. C'est le vie!

I have to say that some days I am simply tired to riding. It used to be so simple to just jump on and fall into a warmed and readied pace within a few minutes. Now it takes me about an hour of riding before everything feels relaxed and comfortable. I don't understand this phenomenon, but after that first hour the time and miles just fly by and next thing I know I'm nearing the end of my ride.

Happy Independence Day and I'll be out riding early and trying to enjoy the holiday weekend for the rest of the time. Enjoy!

-PW