One Week Until The EXCRUCIATION EXAM

[Aggie_Ama]

Last year DH did a mountain bike race called the Excruciation Exam. I noticed a lot of women didn't attempt it and thought, with a little racing one day I would. Next weekend is that one day. It starts with a Lemans start, 7-8 miles trail, road probably 20 miles some dirt road, 20 miles at another course (where I raced 2 weeks ago) and then road back to the other course and 1-2 miles there. It is anywhere from 72-85 miles depending on how the roads between the courses are.

My preparation has been less than ideal with a cold, holidays falling on weekends and bad weather. I feel mentally I know I can do this. I have to hydrate smart, eat and just push myself to my limits. I am pretty excited, I just hope I make the time checks and have fun!

[Anelia]

Good luck, Amanda!
I wish I could also race but there are no events nearby :(

[tealtreak]

Last year DH did a mountain bike race called the Excruciation Exam. I noticed a lot of women didn't attempt it and thought, with a little racing one day I would. Next weekend is that one day. It starts with a Lemans start, 7-8 miles trail, road probably 20 miles some dirt road, 20 miles at another course (where I raced 2 weeks ago) and then road back to the other course and 1-2 miles there. It is anywhere from 72-85 miles depending on how the roads between the courses are.

My preparation has been less than ideal with a cold, holidays falling on weekends and bad weather. I feel mentally I know I can do this. I have to hydrate smart, eat and just push myself to my limits. I am pretty excited, I just hope I make the time checks and have fun!
Sounds epic! Good Luck and have fun!!!!!!!!!!

[Aggie_Ama]

Today I did 70 miles on the road and bonked. Dumb rookie mistake, I drank enough but didn't eat it enough. I think my plan will be a gel per hour. They do have some solid food at the check points (you get a different colored zip tie at each one). I will likely pack Peanut Butter and Jelly in our ice chest. An awesome friend is being our support. I know last year DH also needed a Coke, ibuprofen and more Sport Legs before that last road segment.

EPIC is what I am expecting. I have done six road centuries and now two mountain bike marathon races (50 and 43 miles) plus about 10-15 XC races and 3 half marathons but this is new animal.

[Catrin]

Already cheering for you, and looking forward to hearing how it goes!

[Aggie_Ama]

It went great, how a race that long can be that fun I don't know but I loved it! Here is my report: http://forums.teamestrogen.com/showthread.php?t=46238

[limewave]

OMG< I cannot wait to read this! But I have to go get the kids and get dinner started. It will be my "treat" once the kids are tucked in and my chores done.
:)