What a great place this is!

To answer some questions:
eclectic, They aren't races, just organized Sunday rides to raise money for local charitable organizations. I'm riding a Look 555, carbon road bike, Shimano 105 components, I'm a "re-entry" and have only been riding this go-around a few months. I'm 46 yo with much older knees!

mtdarby, these rides are both around Hudson, across the river from St. Paul. Although Merrill is a lovely area too if memory serves. Maybe we will cross paths sometime. Especially as my endurance improves and I do more of these.

and indysteel, I think I can fit in the back to back longer rides this weekend. Thanks for the suggestion!

Again, thank you all for the encouragement. Especially the encouragement to EAT!