Started out at 7:00 AM at Lake Lavon for a 70 mile ride to Greenville and back.

First 30 miles were good for me. I didn't feel as strong as I have in the past, but I felt solid. The chip seal roads were starting to pound on me, but not too bad.

Miles 30 to 50... HORRIBLE! It was 20 miles into a headwind, blowing around 15-20 mph. Headwinds and me do NOT get along. By around mile 17 of that section, I hit the GRANNY GEAR on the FLATS. I have NEVER done that before, but it tells you how bad the wind was getting to me. I kept telling myself I felt strong, and that I was fine, but I was wearing down. I didn't break, but it was rough.

After that stretch we lost one of our group of 9. The 97-100F heat was getting to her, so she stopped, and someone went back to get her later (in a car).

After our last stop with about 18 miles left, I was DONE FOR. I was tired. My legs felt it. I couldn't keep pace with the rest of the group. One kind soul, Paul, hung back with me and I thanked him profusely.

For the last 2-4 miles, I had this POUNDING headache. My whole head hurt. I think the heat was getting to me.

When the ride was over, I was so happy! I put a cool towel on my face and my head started to feel better.

MORAL OF THE STORY: I learned today that I will NOT be making it 100 miles at Hotter Than Hell. My body doesn't love the heat as much as I think it does.