Thanks guys - I LOVE LOVE hearing stories of your first Centuries/Rides.

Team in Training has been incredible except that the MA Chapter is extremely experienced. Except for 4 other people the entire team has done at least 2 or 3 TNT Centuries. They're a very tight-knit group and so its been a challenge to sort of 'break in' on the team. I have a few people that I'm friendly with but really, because I'm so slow and new, I only ride with my coach or one of the mentors. Out of a team of over 20 only four of us have sagged all Summer (one of which was a mentor). The whole team is usually gone by the time I finish my rides. Its been alot of fun at times but far more difficult than I ever imagined. I think I've written that I've never been an athlete - never participated in any sports - I'm about 50 lbs. overweight - so this was a super stretch for me this summer. And for some reason its hard for me to see what I've achieved. Even that I've gotten this far.

My stomach is in total knots - I feel sick and can't eat. And I've really learned that my obsessive personality doesn't mix well with this sort of undertaking. I get myself so worried and worked up about training rides and now about the ride itself its just silly.

But I'm trying to drink alot of water - get as much sleep as I can this week (which isn't much - I have major sleep issues) - ride an easy 10 or 15 miles tonight - carb load Thursday and Friday. And then just get ready - stock up on my GU20 - other supplies and try to relax. But its very hard for me.

I don't know if I'll keep it up to be honest. I love riding my bike - but training has been super intense and hard for me.

Anyway - keep the stories coming ...