Quote Originally Posted by pyxichick View Post
I've taken up cycling at the age of 36. (I'm amused at the idea of starting a sport at the master level.) I'm not completely new to physical activity, as I've been a nordic skier for several years, but I feel like my body is still adjusting to cycling.

I'm out there riding 100+ miles a week, try to train smart with varied workouts etc., but I still get smoked by the 25 year olds on my rides. I'm not sure if it's their youth or cycling experience that beats me.

I'm interested in doing some races, but wonder if I'll ever have the potential to be competitive, based on my late start.

I'd like to hear about other women's experiences with starting a new sport later in life.

Sounds like we have the same goals. I'm "old" too at 39 (I guess that makes me older than dirt) and just started. I think you had a valid question about whether or not it's silly to consider racing as a goal, since you're just starting out "at your age." But really, how cool is that?? I know we're still spring chickens in the scheme of things, but it doesn't always feel that way.

Anyway, the thought of being fit enough and good enough to race one day really gets me motivated. Sadie Kate had some good ideas. It's definitely a long term goal and one that I'll reevaluate after at least a year. In the meantime, I think it's great and you should go for it!

Um, did you say master level? Oy! Talk about making someone feel old. And don't think about those 25 year olds... if you don't ever catch them, that's okay, and if you do... teehee....