Hi gnat,

You were training for a specific event. Death ride is uber mountain stage. Its not a flat stage. Your body is conditioned for the hill climb and not necessarily for the flat high speed.

I've heard and have experienced personally that specialized training for mountain climb can and will make you slower on the flat. So don't be alarmed.

Second, don't psyche yourself out with the pace on the flat. Calm down and have confidence in your ability. It might be easier than you think to hang onto the group.

Third, spend more time on fast spin and high cadence intervals. Attack on gentle hills. They will make you go faster. And enjoy your new status as Death Ride finisher. Wear the jersey if got it and be proud. Wearing the jersey will give you instant respect from other riders.

smilingcat