| (Long Distance) Ramblings |
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I like to ride my bicycle - for long distances. I have earned the California Triple Crown and finished the Furnace Creek 508. My goals include qualifying for RAAM and ...(read the blog to find out). "The bicycle has a soul. If you are able to love it as it deserves, it will give you emotions you will never forget." "Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride."
"The important decisions in my life I make while out riding my bike."
"Pain is temporary, quitting lasts forever.” Lance Armstrong
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Friday, September 08, 2006
Ring of Fire - Notes before the rideI am now in Maupin for tomorrows Ring of Fire 24 Hour Time Trial. This is a "reality test" for the Furnace Creek 508. The goals for this ride is: 1) Finish the ride; no "DNF". 2) At least 300 miles. 3) No more than 45 minutes off of the bike. 4) On the 25 mile night loop, have the next to last loop be my second fastest. If I accomplish the above, then I have proven to myself that I am ready for the 508. If I have difficulties, then I must reconsider the 508. I believe that I am ready for this ride, but as I have never done a 24 hour time trial before, there is a bit of uncertainty. It is going to be a long day. Things that could defeat me: 1) The weather is forecasted to be less than perfect. We will have lower temps, but we will also have some strong winds. I hope that the wind is not too bad, or at least helps me climb Bakeoven Rd. 2) My left foot could get so painful that I would have to get off of the bike. There is a lot of climbing on this route, and that is what causes my foot the most problems. But, the night loop has just one hill, about 800 feet of gain as you leave Maupin. 3) When I have DNF on rides before, it is generally due to me over thinking. I need to think about the next 25 miles only, not about what comes after. Sandy, my coach will help me here. She will keep me on the bike.
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