If you've never done a century before and you live in SoCal, this would make a great first century. Plus it helps out a long list of local charities.
I wasn't sure if I was going to make this because I had the flu just last week. Fortunately, I made it, and did the 100 miler.
My riding partner and I started out almost an hour late, so we started out with a bit of a time deficit. The first forty just hurt me, mostly because it was the uphill/ high headwind section of the route. I was mouth-breathing which made this section even harder. Fortunately, my riding partner had been trained very well, so for a while I just tucked behind her and drafted. Then there's a many mile descent with very few cars, so we were just flying! I don't know if I believe my max speed (59 mph ), but I know at one point, I saw 46 mph. That was SO much fun! The rest of the ride was fairly easy, particularly after the mile 53 stop. We had lunch, rested for a bit, then a bit of rough road, then just sheer enjoyment. After that it was basically flat, and there seemed to be just enough tailwind to make it relaxing and enjoyable. It looked like everyone was enjoyed themselves, and we met some nice people along the way.
This was my first time doing this century, and I would definitely do it again. It was well organized, and lots of good times. It's reminded how much fun road riding can be.
Kallisti,
newest mtbchick