Throughout the past week, I watched the weekend forecast gradually deteriorate with each passing day. Friday was spectacular, with sunny skies and near record temperatures in the mid 80s. Unfortunately, I had to leave town that afternoon for a planetarium meeting. Apparently, I didn't miss much on Saturday, with rainy conditions off and on all day.
At first, Sunday didn't look much better; in fact, it started off worse, with chilly temperatures and frequent thunder showers. By mid-day, however, a warm front brought improving conditions. The threat of rain finally ended by mid-afternoon, when I began the ride that I didn't think I would get this weekend.
Temperatures during my 1 hour, 45 minute ride were in the mid 70s with moderate southerly breezes. I rode 22.7 miles, and my average speed was just shy of 13 mph. This is my fastest average speed so far this season, which is a sure sign that my body is beginning to adapt to the rhythm of cycling. This is a very good sign indeed!
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Finally . . . a thoroughly satisfying ride in 2009!
This afternoon, I cruised 30.1 miles along the Great Western Trail, the Illinois Prairie Path, and countless low-traffic roads with a smile on my face! This ride was satisfying on so many different levels.
First, it was finally warm enough to leave the outer wind jacket at home and start wearing my Livestrong colors, albeit with a long sleeve t-shirt and leg warmers. [It really is amazing how much better muscles work when they aren't fending off hypothermia].
Secondly, I wasn't fighting strong winds for the first time this year. What a welcome relief!
Thirdly -- and perhaps most importantly -- I was able to ride a 30 mile ride with no ill effects whatsoever. I now feel confident that I will have little trouble with Bike the Drive and the Trek 100. I feel as if I am finally "back in the saddle again."
Alas, cold winds and rain will return for Sunday, but warm weather is expected next weekend. I'll be ready!
First, it was finally warm enough to leave the outer wind jacket at home and start wearing my Livestrong colors, albeit with a long sleeve t-shirt and leg warmers. [It really is amazing how much better muscles work when they aren't fending off hypothermia].
Secondly, I wasn't fighting strong winds for the first time this year. What a welcome relief!
Thirdly -- and perhaps most importantly -- I was able to ride a 30 mile ride with no ill effects whatsoever. I now feel confident that I will have little trouble with Bike the Drive and the Trek 100. I feel as if I am finally "back in the saddle again."
Alas, cold winds and rain will return for Sunday, but warm weather is expected next weekend. I'll be ready!
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Back on the chilly saddle
Today, in yet another attempt to ready myself for the 2009 cycling season, I bicycled on roads near my home. The weather conditions were anything but springlike, with temperatures in the mid 40s and chilly northeasterly breezes that absorbed my energy and enthusiasm as effectively as it absorbed my body heat. Although rather uncomfortable for much of the ride, I still rode nearly an hour and pushed my seasonal mileage total to 80. (I really do need some warmer clothes for these occasions!)
One statistic that makes me feel good is that at this time last year, I hadn't ridden a single mile outside of the miles I rode in Florida. Also, I'm only 20 miles behind last year at this time. Perhaps my next ride (hopefully in warmer conditions) will allow me to crack the 100 mile mark and bring me toe-to-toe with last year's April benchmark.
One statistic that makes me feel good is that at this time last year, I hadn't ridden a single mile outside of the miles I rode in Florida. Also, I'm only 20 miles behind last year at this time. Perhaps my next ride (hopefully in warmer conditions) will allow me to crack the 100 mile mark and bring me toe-to-toe with last year's April benchmark.
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