I need Karma, advice, something

[DDH]

I am going to ride by myself in an organized ride tomorrow for the first time. That's not a problem but since I will be by myself and can take my time, I want to try to ride the 50 miles instead of just the 25 like I had planned. My problem is this, I have not been able to get over letting the 50 defeat me 2 years ago, and haven't gone more than 30 miles since.
I feel like I don't progress and I don't know if I don't let myself, or if I'm just not physically able.

I can go 25 miles fairly easily and thats with quite a few good hills thrown in, so what do you girls and or guys think, should I try it again?

All advice and pushing is welcome.

[HoosierGiant]

We are always capable of sooo much more than we think we are. Absolutely, you can do it! If you can do 25-30, you can do 50. Yes, you can! Concentrate on enjoying yourself; focus on the natural beauty around you and the sometimes humorous behavior of other riders you'll see along the way; stay hydrated; stay fueled; and have fun, fun, fun!!

Without a doubt, crossing the finish line is a grand accomplishment, but it's the journey that teaches us the life lessons. I keep the following quote on my cycling bulletin board:

Out here
the only decisions
really are
where to stop
where to rest
how to take your lessons home.
~~ Lizzie Wann, "Freeway"

Here's to a successful 50 miles and the lessons you'll learn about yourself along the way! You go, girl!!

[Blueberry]

DDH-

I think you CAN do the 50. I've had some mental blocks - and I did an 80 mile ride last year, with my longest ride being 40. I believed I could do it, and I rested, ate and paced myself as I needed to. I finished, and finished strong.

So...my vote is go for it!!!

[wackyjacky1]

Ditto on the above! Relax and have fun. I love the quote that HoosierGiant posted, it's good advice to keep in mind.

Back when I used to ride a lot, I did long, organized rides all the time. I realized that I usually finished near the back of the pack (with the old folks and little kids ) but I found that it didn't bother me because I just really enjoyed being out there on my bike.

You can do it!

[uforgot]

and be sure and give us a full report after the ride!

[kat_h]

You could try my strategy and stop for a bowl of soup 2/3 of the way through.

[Flybye]

Think of it as 2 - 25 mile rides. If you are feeling like quitting, make sure you let yourself rest for at least half an hour and have something to eat at the start of the half hour rest.
I really think you will surprise yourself!

[HoosierGiant]

I'd done imperial centuries the year before, but my longest ride prior to last year's 160-mile RAIN (Ride Across INdiana) was 80 miles. I was having soooo much fun that the miles just flew by!! The mind is truly an awesome thing. Partner it with grit, will, and determination, and anything can happen!

[SouthernBelle]

I'm coming in late on this so you may already be gone.

Promise yourself some good treat at the end! Then you can picture it waiting at the finish line.