Let the training begin. I set off on a Sunday ride, fully intending to do about 30 miles. I mapped out a route and headed towards downtown to hit the Platte Trail. I stopped in at REI to check out handlebar bags. Finding the perfect handlebar bag is getting tough....why'd I sell that one?!? I spent a little time drooling over a wildly overpriced brown and hot pink coordinated poser jersey and short set then decided it was time to hit the road in earnest.
There were occasional headwinds but for the most part it was a smooth ride. I kept my speed between 15 and 17mph, which is exactly where I like to be. I fully intended to take the Platte to the Bear Creek trail then circle around somewhere in Lakewood and heading home, thus completing the 30-ish miles. Well, I missed my turn because before I knew it, I passed a sign that read, "You are now entering Chatfield State Park." Woops! Well, while I'm here, might as well climb this monster hill. This years RAGBRAI is a roller fest with an estimated 21,000 feet of climb!! ACK!
I stopped at the overlook, had a snack then called G to let him know I'd overshot my intended distance and may need to call for backup.
Heading back I had some nice winds at my back. I stopped at the Hudson Gardens Cafe, a great little spot on the trail, for water, restrooms and a sugar-packed strawberry smoothie. It was just what I needed to boost me towards home. About Hampden I started to wonder if I'd make it. At Alameda my thighs were on FIRE. At REI I stopped, stretched for a good 10m, ate the other half of my granola bar and headed home. It was slow going those last 4 miles....really slow, but I made it.
We got B a trail-a-bike tonight and I'm really hoping he can do part of day three of RAGBRAI with me. We'll start riding together this weekend.
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