Stacy,

It sounds like you could have exercise-induced asthma. (I have it also, but not to as large a degree as the attack it sounds like you had.) Pollen can indeed be a contributing factor to make it worse.

I suggest you see your doctor and ask to be checked for asthma. Ironic, isn't it, that you were doing a lung association ride and might have a lung disease as well....

I'm sorry you didn't finish the ride, but kudos for your valiant effort!

Emily