Jiffer, what a great story and good for you for not getting caught on the century! Man, that sounds like a brutal ride and I know what you mean by pushing yourself and waiting to hear your name being called. It's incentive to not quit and keep pushing. A friend of mine who has raced time trials will be there next Tuesday night. She has been so encouraging but is also super strong and very fast--she beats most of the men. I will be her carrot and that will really push me. Like you said, when your ego is at stake, you can really push yourself a lot further than you thought you could. It's a real confidence boost as well.

Good luck on your first official time trial and be sure to let us know how it goes.