Lgibster, I am very similar to you! I can keep up just fine on the flats (and I pass everyone on downhills ), but as soon as we hit an uphill I fall behind. I am not scared of hills and will do whatever is on the route, I just fall behind. I have improved dramatically, but still waaaay behind on most group rides. Thankfully, I've found some groups that are more laid back and will wait for me. I can do the longer distances too but a 16mph avg is not in the picture yet. I also seem to need more breaks that most, so I am trying to improve my overall conditioning.

I do enjoy riding with the faster groups b/c i know it is the only way I will improve, but agree there are days that I just want to have a comfortable ride.

Good job on the HTH ride! I would not enjoy that heat at all.