Kathi, thanks so much for all the information. It's going to be tough, but short of really bad heat (which I know is a possibility) I think I can do it, especially if I eat and drink smart and stretch every 25 miles or so. Do you change your food routine when doing a century? I tend to stick to a mixture of real food (bananas, cookies and trail mixes mostly) and Clif Blocks. I drink CytoMax Energy drink which my stomach tolerates pretty well. I'm going to add something salty into the mix too or add some extra salt to the CytoMax, especially if it's hot. Do you find that you need to resort to gels for longer rides?

Frankly, I'm a little more worried about my friend. She hasn't been able to get as much time in the saddle, although she's in good shape overall. Plus, she hates showing any sign of what she would perceive as "weakness" where as I'm willing to cry uncle if that's what my body is telling me to do. But she's an adult....

When you say that Sunday's ride is pretty, were you referring to any particular route?

Thanks for the help. And have a great ride in the Rockies!