My local cycling club is have a time trial series over the winter so we can judge our performance over time. This is the first time I've been able to make it due to the hospital, so I decided to come on out. It's a 9mile course, with relatively flat ares going out and back, with the middle having some false flat going into 4 quick rolling hills. I'm trying to use this as a way to learn how hard I can go and still have enough to push it at the end (something I always have a hard time with in the tris).
The weather was nice, upper 40s, sunny, and no wind. There was around 20 people riding. I was the first one to go off (boo, no one to chase) but was at least able to be warmed up for the start. I settled into a comfortable, but pushing it a little, pace, with the goal of making it to the 1/2 way point before being passed. (there are a lot of people much, much faster than me). Well, right about mile 4.5/5 I was passed by a lady who started 3min after me. She is an extremely strong rider who has pulled me back on group rides, so I wasn't too suprised to see her.
I had some difficulties on the false flat and rolling hills, like always. I just don't have the power in my legs or something to keep up a good cadence and just push through these. I've watched some other people in these areas and they never even shift, they just get out of the saddle and go. Me, I have to spin up them in a lower gear then shift up to the big ring for the descents. (I much prefer longer climbs where you have to spin up it. Then I actually pass people!).
Anyways, I digress. After getting through the hills and false flats, I had about 2.5/3miles left, so I started pushing it pretty hard. I got into a good rhythm again, at a high cadence, and settled back into my aerobars. Those things are fun! especially on some of the bends in the road. You really feel like you're one with the bike. I had no problems holding my line, but it definately felt weird steering, like one wrong move and that would be it. Bye bye! But I had no problems with them. I'm sure my confidence will go up with more time.
On the way back, two people who had passed me were riding back and were cheering us all on, which was cool. Definately helped me keep my legs going.
My overall time was 34:26, averaging 15.6mph. I was hoping for 16mph, but those hills and false flats were just getting me. Hopefully I won't be on call next month and will be able to get my goal of 16mph. I should have pushed harder because I could have kept going, but I did a better job than during some tris. But that's what this is for, to learn pacing for the summer races.
Numerous pictures were taken, I think at least 3, maybe more. Once I get them, I'll post them here.
