I have been lucky to have had a couple of great rides over the past couple weeks. After a full week of work on the road for the MS TRAM, I snuck down to Iowa to take part in the Guitar Ted Death Ride Invitational. This is a 100 mile gravel ride leaving from south of Waterloo and making a BAL out of some of the best roads I have ridden. There was a little heat, but nothing too unmanageable. My biggest mistake was missing a small patch of shoulder with the sunscreen. I felt really good all day, managed my food intake, kept my water at an appropriate level and had an absolute blast. This was definitely one of the best century rides I have done.
Then this past weekend was the 8th annual Tour de Loren, an urban century around the twin cities here in MN. One of my customers hosts this ride and we had a good crew that started out at 21 riders. I alternate how I ride this one and this happened to be a racing year. I went all out, brandishing our team jersey and even shaving my legs. I bribed another rider with bacon at the start so I didn't have to ride the entire day without some help. Again, I felt good the entire day with the exception of our 3rd stage after lunch. And even though I wasn't the strongest rider in the group, I had a great ride. I pushed myself hard and enjoyed my road bike. Something I don't do often enough.
This weekend I am opting out of riding. I still have some house to paint, so that will occupy my weekend. Hopefully I can finish it up and be back in the saddle next weekend.
