Alafia Classic 6 Hour

I signed up for the Hard Course knowing exactly what I was getting myself into.  I knew that I would be up against some super fast ladies, but I was okay with that.  I liked the HC much better and figured if I had to ride for 6 hours, I might as well have some fun.

It's been a long time since I did a 6 hour race SOLO.  So-I must confess-during this race, I made lots and lots of mistakes. Proper nutrition and pacing myself- those would be the biggies.

Lap 1- Very slow start, I practically had to walk my bike through River Loop because there was so much bike traffic.   Now, before I go any further, let me ask you something. Did anyone see that pedal sticking out of the ground at the beginning of Roller Coaster???  Well, unfortunately I didn't and ended up flipping over my bars, bruising my thigh, and hit my head.

Lap 2-Moving on, I was being pushed by some speedy lady. I later found out that she wasn't even in my class.  All that wasted energy to stay ahead of her, and for what, so I can burn myself out.  That was dumb!!  Break time again, needed to recover.

Lap 3- I started to get some killer leg cramps, and my back was in bad shape from all those roots on River Loop (a full suspension bike would be nice)  So, off the bike again for a short break. Got "the talk" from my Mom and Dad about staying hydrated.  And I have to admit they were right, I only had a half of a water bottle during my 3 laps.

Lap 4- Slowed down the pace.  I knew I didn't have a chance at a podium finish, so I was working towards my personal goal.

Lap 5-  A little motivation (bribe) from my Dad had me continuing on.  Yep, not ashamed to admit.  I was promised a set of ceramic bearings for my skateboard.  So, I kept pedaling.


Lap 6-  Well, there was no lap 6 for me.  Missed the deadline by 6 minutes. Maybe next year!! 

Meet Josselyn!!  Here's one of the rare times I get to see her, usually I'm eating her dust!!  Thanks for being so awesome!!!