GLC- Glad to hear the Sports Beans worked! (If I recall, it was Ms Sadie Kate who first recommended them to me last year so she really deserves the credit!!!!)

That nasty wind will make you STRONG! I know, I know, who likes being buffeted around, it's not fun. BUT winds are like hills- they require you to work hard.

42 miles- good.

If your butt is hurting after 42 miles that might be a sign of potential problems as you ride longer distances. You might try raising your seat about 1cm and see how that goes. Mark the spot where you started from so you can keep track. (you can always go back) Your body doesn't like big changes, but incremental ones are fine. I've had to adjust my seat height several times to get it perfect for long distance riding. Good to get these issues solved now!

Also, drink lots afterwards. I'm even into drinking chocolate milk as it appears to work as well as recovery drinks. AND, don't forget to stretch those quads and hamstrings as well as your back!!!!!