I think what VeloGirl is saying applies to cycling in general (or any other group type sport). Those of us who are competitive tend to forget that we shouldn't compare ourselves to others (this seems to be my tendency at times when I'm riding with women who are 10-20 years younger than I am).

I'm always challenging myself to do better. It's just my modus operendum (spelling here?). But at the same time, I realize I'm in this sport for the fun as well as the challenge and sometimes its nice to just get out and smell the flowers and enjoy the quiet!