Personal Best

Ok, I decided to do my first century ride today. I planned it last week but have had no time for any century specific training and actually didn't ride at all during the week. But the ride went well and I am quite pleased with my performance. Due to some errors in following the course map, I only ended up with 90 miles. But I averaged 18+ mph and finished in 4:48:00. 

I started out riding with what I would call the "A" group and hung on for all of 18 miles with an average speed of 24mph. We took a right turn and I didn't get out of the saddle immediately, which was my mistake. They took off and shot me out the back like I had dropped anchor. I rode mile 18 through 58 by myself. I was trying not to let the second half of the 100 mile group catch me. At 58 miles I hooked up with a strong guy and we rode together for about 20 miles when we decided that due to the strong headwinds, we would wait for the rest of the group and get some help fighting the wind. It worked well until a second map reading error in this group cut out about 3 more miles. 

Finally finishing the ride, I was very satisfied with the way I felt and performed. That was the longest distance I've ridden at one time. I'm glad I did it and I'm inspired to add more base miles.