Beating out the rain

When the forecast calls for rain on a cycling day, you always hope the weather people are wrong. I can stand a run in the rain, but I prefer not to traverse slick roads and be covered in traffic spray. It's not to say that I won't ride in this condition (afterall, I'll probably race in it someday) but it is much more pleasant when it's dry out. Luckily, I made it back in with about hour to spare.

For someone who has never done multiple hours on a bike, I just can't describe the feeling. I completed my first 3 hour ride yesterday (averaging 15.0 mph with 2940 ft of elevation gain) and the feeling afterward is simply unique. The feeling of exhaust, completion, and joy are a strange mix that truly must be unique to endurance sports. I would not have made it through without the trusty gels. I know they are mainly for nutritional value, but on an 11% grade 2.5 hours in, it also was a huge mental boost. Just eating something made me feel like I would be able to make it through.

I realize after this ride that I have a long way to go, but at the same time it feels all the more possible that I will get there.

Glad today is recovery day.