So 100+ miles a week is all it takes? Plus a lot of perseverance, and maybe just a wee bit of craziness to be willing to spend 12-24 hours in the sadde .

You're right about keeping your heart rate down -- if you can stay aerobic you'll last much, much longer. And eating is so important too (and not throwing up, like I've done).

No, I won't be trying the ride next year, although doing the 115 mile course you did as a point-to-point ride later in the year when I'm in shape does sound intriguing.

And you can TAKE my SAG guy, please.