I arrived at the race ridiculously early, as I tend to. . .thanks OCD. So I had time to relax a little before the ride. One of my biggest issues with all races are the limited bathroom facilities. Most races do not offer adequate bathrooms, in my opinion. There are always looooong lines, and twice I have had to leave the line, in order to go start the race, without getting to "go".
This race had NO bathroom options. That's right. No bathrooms available. I texted Fitness Guru, and she suggested that I become "one with nature." Ha ha. I packed some tissues, in case that suggestion became a reality.
The race started promptly at 8am, and I took off with the other 100K and 50K riders (the 25K started about five minutes after us). . .and before I was even out of the parking lot, the chain popped off my gears completely. Thankfully, an experienced rider ahead of me heard my (unladylike) comment of frustration and turned around to help. It took us about five minutes, but we got the chain back on the bike, and we were good to go. At this point, everyone was ahead of us - and long gone from view. I felt horrible about this gentlemen falling so far behind (and he was dressed for success). He was very nice, and got us on the route, before taking off to rejoin his group.
The ride route was through a couple towns that I was not familiar with - which was very nice. I like seeing new areas. I managed to recover some time early on, and pass a few people, so I was not last anymore. However, I ended up riding almost the entire race all by myself: no one passed me, and I didn't pass anyone. Lots of time to think. . .and become "one with nature". . .no watering the plants though, no. . .a bird pooped on me!
Well, shift happens, right?!
The 50K, which I think translates to about 31 or 32 miles, clocked in at 34.08 according to my Garmin. The ride was challenging, but fun and beautiful. I had a great time, completed a new distance, and became one with nature. Yay me!
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