Loop The Lake - Epilogue...

(Post 9 of 9)


Epilogue –

Lessons learned:

- It was my first organized ride, so I obviously learned a lot about how an event works and how to cycle in that atmosphere.

- Equipment matters, but it’s not everything.  I was still successful.  But, I think in this situation a road bike helps you work smarter, not harder.    

- Sunscreen.  Bring it.  Use it.  Wear it.  Apply it again.

- Two bottles/cages are better than one.  Stay hydrated.

Nearly 250 cyclists took part in this event.  99 riders completed the route I did, the Metric Century.  I was out there for approximately 5 hours and 15 minutes (including about 5 minutes at each of the three rest stops and the wait times with the police escorts.)  My actual ride time was 4:30. 

My hubby and I came home, got cleaned up, and met my parents out for dinner.  They had been watching our daughter.  I showed her my medal and told her she could wear it.  That was, until the waiter brought over her macaroni and cheese.  Then I told her to give it back to me before she got it all cheesy and messed up.


After dinner we went to Walgreens to shop for some pain relief.  I chose Tiger Balm gel and patches.  That night I drifted off to sleep with a patch on each thigh, thankful that they were soothing my aching muscles.  

Thanks to the donations I raised from supportive family and friends, I will be receiving a Loop The Lake jersey in the mail over the next few weeks.

Two days after the ride, I put a road bike on layaway.  I got a great deal on a 2010 Specialized Allez Double.  It’s last year’s model.  From my research, it should be a good entry level road bike for me.  I don’t know how long it will take to pay it off and bring it home.  But, it’s mine and someday soon I will ride it.  I think it was the smart way to go since I have a kid to feed and put through college.  I was trying to upgrade but still be realistic about my budget.  I had already done some casual research on road bikes so I just got more specific with it and then I went to two different bike stores.  The guys at both stores raised their eyebrows at me and chuckled when I said I had just done a metric century on a hybrid.  They agreed wholeheartedly it was time to upgrade.  However, I did not trade in my beloved (hybrid) bike.  That wasn't even an option.  I will keep that bike until it disintegrates into dust.  I love that bike and what I can do on it.  Different rides, different equipment.  I will enjoy riding both bikes for a long time to come.

Three days after the ride, I was back at it riding my typical quickie 5 miler before work. 

I am researching what other events I would like to do in the future.  I would definitely ride Loop The Lake again next year.  And I’m looking for my first Century (100 mile) event. 

To be continued…

;-D