July 28 rides

[Crankin]

It feels like you are in Hell...

I never want to experience that again.

[Duck on Wheels]

I'm back to bike commuting as of this week. At last. Doing better on the hills now, after all the work and experience and hill-climbing insights of the ALC. Hmmmm. Used bike commuting to train for the ride, now it seems the ride was training for bike commuting. Tuesday I rode past home after work, went downtown to do a couple of errands and see the Medieval Faire. Saw something else interesting as well: I've seen bike cops before, but this was the first time I've seen a "bike ambulance". Two cyclists, presumably emergency med. personnel, with AMBULANCE clearly marked on their jackets and bikes. Panniers on the bikes, probably with defib and other medical equipment. Too bad I couldn't find which jacket pocket I had my cell phone in so I could take a picture, but they should be around more through the week. I asked how they deal with transporting patients, and they explained that they're first responders in crowd situations such as the ongoing festival. If I see 'em I'll snap a pic and post it here later.

[uk elephant]

I was finally feeling stronger on the hills too and managed to push the pace up ever so slightly at the top yesterday. Probably not noticeable to anyone else, but felt good to me. Must be a combination of the ALC hills and getting used to my commute. Wavered whether to cycle home again after work in the pouring rain. Went for a quick swim first and by the time I came out the rain had nearly stopped. Didn't start up again until I was nearly home so had a nice ride after all.

[indigoiis]

I did a half commute in (15.5) and the full commute home (28.2) yesterday, and then the full commute in this morning. My truck is at the park and ride and it is supposed to lightening and thunder later, so that's my miles for today. It was hot yesterday (Tuesday.) Nice to ride with someone else though - distracting! Especially on the bike path where we can ride side by side and talk.