The ALA ride was awesome! I had sooo much fun, we met some really awesome people, and I can't wait to sign up for next year! The first day I felt good, was pacing at about 18mph with my bf and two other guys (until the two other guys dropped behind) - then there was only two other people ahead of us (I know it was only a ride and not a race, but competition in just in my blood I guess), and then wouldn't you know it, I get a flat. So, we fixed that, and then the last ten miles were pretty brutally hilly (so I had to slow down a bit) but we made it. The second day started out with the biggest, steepest, and longest hill I have ever rode in my life, and it was TOUGH, with quite a few people walking up (but I made it the whole way - huffing and puffing). Then, at about 16 miles, I get another flat, we fix it, and it goes flat again, and then again (spokes poking my tire - a problem I've had before) after waiting 1 1/2 hours for the repair guy (I let my bf go ahead and I thought I could just pick up the ride with some other group since everyone was so friendly) I had to get a ride back to the hotel (major bummer). That night was rough, because I kind-of felt like I failed, but there was really nothing I could have done differently . . .
But, then Sunday was awesome! I was soo strong, and the whole ride felt great. We ended up doing an extra 8 miles because the Aids ride and our ride connected (and the signs looked exactly the same) so we ended up following that route for a while, but thank goodness Tony (BF) thought to check the directions, and we eventually found the right route. And, I was ok with the extra miles, it just let me make up a little from the day before - and no flats! Good bike, good bike!!
This ride has definitely worsened my addiction to riding, the people were awesome, the ride was great, and incredibly challenging, and I really "connected" with my bike (I've even forgiven him for the 3 flats on Saturday), and I feel more comfortable on it than ever before. Thanks for all the support!