I agree with that. It's easy to see riders pass you and try to keep up. Sometimes it's not even a conscious decision, you sort of unknowingly speed up, but keep an eye on your speedometer to make sure you stay on YOUR race pace. 150 miles is a LONG way ... don't burn out to ride with a faster group.

Besides, I've done centuries fast and I've done 'em slow ... this last one we took 8 hours to finish and had the best time ever. AND we felt good enough to go out and celebrate ... those fast rides leave me ready to hit the hot tub and straight to the couch. Not the most fun way to celebrate your accomplishment!

I stay motivated by setting little goals -- reach the next SAG by 9am, keep my heart rate at whatever number for the next five minutes, that sort of thing. I don't stop at all the SAGs but the stops can be motivating too. If you pull in behind someone, make a little goal to get out ahead of them ... it's a sense of accomplishment AND it keeps you from staying off the bike too long. (After a long day of riding it can get pretty tough to get back on!) Make small goals to eat and drink too -- finish one waterbottle each hour. That will make sure you're hydrated and give you a small win as well. PLUS, if you're riding with someone, use them for motivation. My BF and I always drag each other if one or the other is feeling strong and the other is weak. It will pass, and you can switch off, and feed off the excitement and adrenaline of your group.

Sarah B I'm excited for you. Enjoy your ride!