First century FAIL!

[channlluv]

You made it 70 miles on a bike that didn't fit? I'm with Catriona. That's impressive, DNF or no.

I'm glad you weren't suffering the next day.

Roxy

[NoNo]

You made it 70 miles on a bike that didn't fit? I'm with Catriona. That's impressive, DNF or no.

I'm glad you weren't suffering the next day.

Roxy

Who said I'm not suffering? I had a bit of a limp yesterday as my hips hurt. Today my lower back is cranky and I'm regretting not bringing the heating pad to work. I'll be good in another day or so.

[tctrek]

Way to go, NoNo... you've got what it takes to do whatever you put your mind to do. Gotta love it!

[Reesha]

NoNo-- I totally feel your pain!

My first century ride was a beast with over 3000 feet of climbing, most in the second half and I was riding with a bunch of people I didn't know-- mostly cycling team hammerheads! I paid good money for the registration for a t-shirt, the bbq after... the century took me ten hours. I sobbed as I climbed the last thirty miles or so-- I was in so much pain! I stopped often. I felt awkward that I was making the sag wagon guy wait so long. I crawled into my car at the end and just sobbed-- I'd done it... but I felt kind of humiliated that there was nothing waiting for me at the end and that I'd spent all that money registering for nothing. Bummer!

Anyway, don't let it put you off-- you'll be able to do it, you probably just need to prepare for that kind of long ride a little longer! I haven't done my second century because of my first one yet-- even though I'm getting better!

[bikerHen]

I hope you at least got the shirt Reesha! As one who has often missed the party after the ride I have learned a few things. Collect your shirt before the ride, ride your speed, don't try to "keep up" with anyone and most important leave as early as you can. If I'm doing a 50 miler I always leave with the 100 mile riders. I get drop the first mile and then have a lovely solo ride until the "fast" 50 milers blow by around mile 25. The rest of the ride I have other riders to talk with and I always get back when the party is still going strong. That extra hour really makes a difference! bikerHen

[wackyjacky1]

I hope you at least got the shirt Reesha! As one who has often missed the party after the ride I have learned a few things. Collect your shirt before the ride, ride your speed, don't try to "keep up" with anyone and most important leave as early as you can. If I'm doing a 50 miler I always leave with the 100 mile riders. I get drop the first mile and then have a lovely solo ride until the "fast" 50 milers blow by around mile 25. The rest of the ride I have other riders to talk with and I always get back when the party is still going strong. That extra hour really makes a difference! bikerHen

This sounds like excellent advice. When I get my nerve up to try a century, I will remember this.