Let's try this again. (fingers couldn't keep up with brain)

Spazz -
I'm in the same boat. (+20 post college) I've also joined a social group of riders for company and motivation. Some of the guys race mtb & ride their road bikes for training. There are some awesome women in the group, but they have no desire to race and ride at a liesurely pace, except for one who has been a fantastic mentor (she used to race). It sure would be nice to be able to get a better gauge of progress by riding with other ladies who are also starting to race. It seems like many developmental programs out there are for juniors. I have the "Lance Armstrong Performance Porgam", Lance Armstrong & Chris Carmichael and "Smart Cycling", Arnie Baker books. Do you use a HRM?

Thanks for your input!
Cathy