Hi ladies…just wanted to get your opinion on something…

I ride with only guys and only towards the end of this season, I started riding with the “fast” pack. These are serious racers and more often than not, I get dropped about 20 miles in. Our rides are usually 55+ miles. I have been able to keep up 3 times and make it through the entire ride. I’m an aspiring racer so my logic is keep riding with them and eventually I will be able to consistently keep up with them. This is a drop ride, meaning that if you can’t keep up, you go home alone. Also, this is not exactly a social club. They go out to hammer and I respect that. I get the sense that these guys don’t necessary see me as a “hardcore” rider. But I follow cycling religiously and am addicted to the sport. I’m not even sure why I even care what they think about me.

I guess my question is, should I keep riding with these guys? I feel like I’ve earned my “stripes” to ride with them but more often than not, I get the vibe that I’m not exactly welcome. I respect that they treat me as “one of the guys” but at the same time would appreciate some kind of support. I guess I can’t have my cake and eat it too. And don't get me wrong, some of them are great and super-friendly, but a few of them definitely give a vibe that I should not ride with them.

I know the answer to my own question but just had to get that off my chest. And to be honest, I think most of the racers in the club had to work up this way so I shouldn’t expect “special” treatment just because I’m a girl. Nonetheless, it can get pretty lonely when no one really wants to talk to you on a 3 hour ride. So ladies…please tell me to toughen up and stick with it!!!

Thanks for reading…