I rode my first century last year and absolutely loved it so I rode another the following week. I did not have as much fun on the second one but still felt great about my accomplishment that day.

I've ridden two this year. The first one was very hilly and though I can't say I feeling good at the end, mentally I felt on top of the world because of all the hills I had climbed that day - quite an accomplishment for me.

I rode a century this past weekend and had a fantastic time on the bike. I felt really strong and at the end felt like I could continue riding for some time (guess all those mles I've logged this summer paid off). The best part of this century was I rode with my BF on and off throughout the day.

I would agree mind set is so very important. The days I've gone in smiling and riding my ride I've had a wonderful experience. Those in which I was dreading it and not able to find my rhythm I've had to grit it out and talk myself through the last 20 miles or so.