Hi everyone - I've been MIA since last August when everyone here was so great and supportive during my breakdown in the weeks before my first Century. I did finish my ride, Mad River in Vermont, with Team in Training. And loved the experience so so much.

Due to illness (mono and other fun stuff), I've been off my bike and out of the gym since November. I've put on 10 or 15 pounds and actually intimidated to get back on my bike.

The cycle-team I rode with (MA Team in Training) will be recruiting for their summer ride again in a few weeks and I'm trying to weigh my options. I'm quite worried about raising the money for the ride this year since it would be my second year (novelty is gone), and tough times for everyone. I also think the experience of training that hard was very tough on my body and I'd like to enjoy the summer a bit more (rather than training and obsessing so much). So I think I'd like to do a few 50-mile rides. (Also volunteering to drive the SAG for the season for the team.) But I would like to train with a group/team.

I've gone on-line and everything I've found in my area are teams that train for races etc. and though one or two say 'all levels welcome' I feel VERY worried about joining a team that I couldn't keep up with and that is not supported.

Any advice for finding riding buddies/group so I could train for a few 50-milers this summer?

Thanks!