Fiesta Wildflower Ride -Apr. 19

The 104 mile bike ride became 112 as we got a wee bit of a late start. Yes, sometimes gathering all you need for a bike ride takes awhile and can set you back a bit, but we were only a few minutes late and were just finishing pumping up our tires when we heard the 100 mile group leave, no problem we could catch them. We rushed to leave with the 65 mile group. We were off and pedaling putting off a bathroom break until the first rest stop to save time. We began with a bang to try and catch up with at least the tail end of the 100 milers. Four miles into the ride I notice a sign that does not include 100. "Umm I think we are on the wrong route." Like salmon swimming up stream we head back against the flow of cyclists and learn that the branching off point was pretty much at the start of the ride. At this point I really need to go to the bathroom and I know it will be awhile, argh. I reassure myself that it is all a part of training and learning to deal with life's little mishaps. We ride on, realizing we are now at least 40 minutes behind the pack and hoping the rest stops stay open. My determination to get there keeps me pedaling hard against the strong head wind. The ride is gorgeous with perfect temperatures, beautiful scenery and low trafficked roads. We press on and FINALLY come to the rest stop I rush to the port-o-let and feel tons better, ready to rock on. My ultimate cheerleaders pull up as we are about to leave. It is so nice to have a sign of support (and could have been invaluable had we really been lost or the rest stops closed). I hand my jacket to my Mom as she puts her cowbell away and we are off. The first rest stop ended up being mile 25 after our snafu. The rest of the ride I felt great and worked on fueling at the stops even when I didn't feel hungry. I used what my energy felt like versus my stomach and it seems to have worked well. I had a few periods of nausea but was strong the whole ride. I also applied chamois butter at one of the rest stops and lo' and behold I might have solved the saddle sore problem. That is HUGE! I've never felt better after a 112 ride and had a great time with my riding buddy, parents cheerleading and fabulous dinner at the end.