Thoughts From the Trainer

It is snowing.  Again.  It seems the ground has been covered with a thick coat of white for months.  Accompanying the snow has been frigid air.  In a word, brutal.

It is Friday night, and I am on the trainer.  My plans for the evening had not originally included riding my bike.  I rode (on the trainer) this morning, and practiced yoga. I had been anticipating a lovely evening out. However, the "dusting" of snow which had been forecasted was slowly progressing into another five inches of the "lovely" white substance, putting a firm wrench into my plans. Another layer upon several previous layers of snow was piling up. The road conditions were terrible. I was bitterly disappointed to cancel, as I had looked forward to this evening all week.  

Perched in the saddle of my bike is typically my happy place. However, riding indoors has gotten tedious.  The bike, attached to the bright green trainer, has become the proverbial Road to Nowhere.  I sometimes have to laugh at how ironic it is to pedal furiously, yet literally not propel forward. Stuck at the starting line.  I repeat this process every day.  Crazy?  Perhaps, but the training will make me stronger which will translate to better riding this spring.  Soon...

My recent trip to Puerto Rico, and the 375 mile endurance ride in the hot climate, spoiled me.  It was a wonderful reprieve to ride for four days in the sunshine, no trainer in sight.  Several posts to come about this trip, which was the experience of a lifetime, to come.  They are in the works, so stay tuned.

Since returning to Indiana, we have suffered winter's wrath.  The powers that be are labeling this winter "the second snowiest on record".  Snow, which is so beautiful and peaceful, is not being enjoyed by anyone, especially the cyclists I know.  Even my kids, who enjoyed numerous snow days, are growing weary.

I've cursed the giant snow piles, scattered about town.  Including the 7ft tall pile in front of my house.  A few more turns of the snow plow on the cul-de-sac and the pile will dwarf the house itself.

As I settle into my intervals, my thoughts swirl.  I begin to laugh at the imagery of an adult woman silently cursing snow piles in the grocery store parking lot. It is rather silly. When I think of  all the serious things going on in my life and in the world, in the grand scheme of things a giant snow mound is quite insignificant.  Of course I would much rather be riding outside with the miles stretching behind me in the sunshine.  But today I still get to ride my bike. It is a privilege I embrace, even if it's on the trainer.  I'm healthy and lucky enough to be able to do so.

I mentally switched gears and instead of lamenting the snow and the fact that I was stuck indoors, I turned my thoughts to a more positive approach and took time to appreciate the positive things going on in my life.  I have some pretty amazing people surrounding me.  I'm healthy, and I'm growing spiritually and as an individual. Spring will come soon enough.

As my mind calmed, I let my legs spin and I wound down the ride with a smile on my face.  

I glanced outside at the snow covered street to see my lovely daughter shoveling the driveway (she must have gone outside while I was finishing on my rant-filled ride).  This, of course further softened my mood, and drew my attention to her beauty, as well as the serenity of the snow.  She had taken Frank, the dog outside with her, and he was unabashedly dashing around the snow, which added laughter to the scene.  I was immediately grateful

I am reminded that it is mid February and there are just a few weeks left in winter.  Spring is approaching, and I am looking forward to the day where I can pick up my green trainer, and unceremoniously place it in the storage closet in the basement where it will (hopefully) remain until December.

For now, and until the snow melts and the spring flowers begin to bloom, I will happily ride my bike.  It will be on the trainer, but soon....outside in the sunshine.

Peace, Out
xoxo

Laughter in Training

Back to blogging....

I wrote the draft of this post in December.  In reviewing my unpublished posts this evening, it dawned on me that I needed to post this, as well as write about my extraordinary experiences during the last several months.  I am compelled to get back to you and this blog.

Training for an endurance event is serious business.  It is a fine balance of hard work, rest, nutrition, hydration and more hard work.  An endurance event, when it comes down to it is a solo endeavor, however the road to the event is paved with training, friends and a support system.  It does indeed take a village to send an athlete out onto the course.

Training in the winter in Indiana requires either facing the elements, or riding indoors on the trainer.  Wind, snow, frigid cold...not for the faint at heart.  I have ventured out on the road as much as possible.  (Truth be told, I enjoy riding in the wind.)  However, the month of January, and now into February of 2014 has meant a lot of snow.  Lots...with a capital "L".  It's actually a bit ridiculous. As such, the trainer has been my friend and nemesis.

As you may know, I recently completed my first ultra distance event; La Vuelta Puerto Rico. http://www.vueltapr.com.  Three days peloton riding, 375 miles around the perimeter of the beautiful island of Puerto Rico. It was an amazing, life-changing event.  I will share more very soon.

The months surrounding this event have been rather tumultuous for me.  My personal life is changing..in a major way.  As such I have taken a brief hiatus from blogging.  In an effort to resume blogging, and write about this adventure, I'm jumping back a couple of months to the trip to Florida.

You may recall, in early December I began to write about the journey of three friends (a.k.a Tres Amigas) to a training camp in Mt. Dora hosted by MotionFit. https://www.facebook.com/MotionFit.net.  Kameel Abdurrahman is a captain at La Vuelta and has done the race many times.  We were anxious for the 141 mile mock La Vuelta training ride.  I left you  with the story about our stops in Tennessee.

Back on track:

Day 3...Friday, December 13, 2013 we arrived in Florida.  The town of Mt. Dora beckoned us after a very long 2 1/2 days of travel.  The town of Mt. Dora surprised me.  It was quaint and beautiful.  A small village of unique shops and restaurants.  We were eager to check in to our hotel, The Lakeside Inn, and get out on our bikes.  Alas, the desk clerk informed us that our room was not quite ready.  Dilemma.

Being the practical women we are, we decided to look for a laundry facility to wash our dirty, sweaty (smelly) clothes.  We had no idea of the fun that was about to unfold.  The mark of true friendship is being able to let loose and be yourself (honest and raw).

Turns out the laundry facility was not in the greatest of neighborhoods.  I am fairly convinced a drug deal went down in the adjacent parking lot.  We averted our eyes and kept our heads down.  The bench in front of the laundrymat housed an apparent homeless gentleman who had seemingly not seen a shower stall for weeks.  He seemed intent to sit and take in the three female athletes washing their laundry.

Still, we found time to be silly and enjoy the beautiful Florida sunshine, in spite of our surroundings.

Caught a few rays....improvisation as no beach was nearby.

Met some interesting characters. 

In such a setting, we lost ourselves in laughter.  Even if just for an hour or two.  We finished the laundry, found our way back to the Inn and rode our bikes.

One step closer to La Vuelta, many steps closer to each other.

More to come...we have a lot of catching up to do!

Peace Out xoxo

The Journey Continues

My eyes opened on day two of our journey.  Thursday, December 12, 2013. We had arrived long after sunset the night before so I was anxious to see my outdoor surroundings. It seemed we had driven through emptiness arriving in the middle of nowhere. I was imagining beauty, from the description I had been given by Becky, our hostess.  I was not disappointed. The morning light peeking through the window displayed a spectacular view of the pristine landscape of the back of the home, which had been hidden in the thick darkness of the night. It was remote and breathtakingly beautiful.  There was not a sound.  It was as if time stood still and I was the only person present. I had been given a room all to myself, probably for the last time on this trip. I stretched, like one of Becky's cats, and remained in bed for a few more minutes lost in my thoughts. This was a rare luxury and I was taking full advantage.

As I relaxed, I closed my eyes and reflected on the sense of peace I was feeling.  Our slow progress toward Florida was another luxury I appreciated. This trip means more to me than a simple vacation and cycling training. It is a catalyst to an even deeper level of spirituality. A much needed battery recharge. 

I was in perfect company. The three amigas, as we have dubbed ourselves, have different personality traits, yet we blend well together. Balance each other.  Compliment each other. Athletes, women and friends on a common journey.  There are times in life where one must put the hustle and bustle behind and return to simplicity.  We had no particular agenda other than to arrive at athlete check-in in Mt. Dora, FL at 6:30pm Friday evening, and the big training ride on Saturday.  Otherwise we were winding our way slowly to the sunshine state.

I am not spontaneous.  Or, at least I haven't been.  Recently I have been consciously letting go of a lot of my old ideas, habits and character flaws which have been holding me back from achieving balance.  On this trip I have learned spontaneity, patience and tolerance.  So far.  Ha Ha.

We had a lovely breakfast with Becky and Fatty the cat, reloaded the car and hit the open road. Destination: Chattenooga, TN. The only plan was to ride our bikes when we arrived. Hopefully part of the Ironman Chattenooga course, if we could locate it.  Basically, however we had no idea where, when or how long the ride would be, and I let go of the control.  I was along for the ride, so to speak, in more ways than one.  And that's huge progress for me.

We arrived in Chattenooga around 11am, and scoped out a good place to start. We parked in an open lot and unloaded the bikes.  It was colder than we anticipated and we needed our cold weather gear.  We laughed, bundled up (understatement) and set out.  We were going to attempt an out and back, as we were unfamiliar with the town and surrounding mountains.  Yes.  Mountains.  We started out, and Catherine stopped to request some sort of directional advice from a local Salvation Army bell ringer.  He seemed to know what he was talking about, and once again the urge to act spontaneity struck and we decided to throw caution to the wind and set out in the direction he pointed.  Our plan was to make as few turns as possible.

After taking an eternity to get changed, fill our water bottles, use the restroom and set out amidst much laughter, it was close to 2:00pm.  The ride was hard.  The elements and the terrain worked against us, but we persevered!  It felt bitterly cold, there was a fair amount of wind, and we faced challenging climbs.  (I happen to love riding in the wind and I embrace climbing, so the ride was so much fun.)  The girls had a blast as well.

Downtown Chattenooga was beautiful and the perfect spot to break up our trip to do what we love.  

We returned to the car, locked our gear and our bikes and had an early dinner. Ben and Jerry's ice cream for dessert. We justified the calories with the exertion we had put forth on our bikes. We got back on the road at 6pm, laughing and chatting as we replayed the day. We stopped for the night (spontaneously) in Valdosta, GA.  

Next destination: Mt. Dora, FL  A three hour drive....

To be continued....

The Journey to La Vuelta MotionFit Training Camp

Day One

Indiana to Rutledge TN

Wednesday, December 11, 2013

The adventure begins. Michelle Atkins, Brenda Juarbe-Pearson and coach extraordinaire Catherine Lacrosse. Amazing cyclists and very good friends setting forth on a cycling vacation. 

Three girls, three bikes and too many bags. In pre-trip discussions, we all vowed not to overpack. That being said, we over packed. I mean, let's be honest, a girl just never knows what shoes to wear with a given outfit until she's getting dressed. It's best to have options. Additionally, five days of cycling in various climates requires a fair amount of gear. However, we managed to squeeze the luggage, bikes and ouselves into one car. We are at maximum capacity.  And loving every second. 

In preparation for The Big Event, La Vuelta Puerto Rico in January, we are attending a weekend training camp presented by Motionfit. Kameel Abdurraman is Motionfit and is a road captain for the peloton style La Vuelta. It promises to be a fantastic weekend of solid cycling. Saturday we will ride 141 miles, and a short 40 mile wrap up ride Sunday.

Obsessed with cycling as we are, a few extra days of riding have been added to spice up the adventure. 

We are traveling by car from bitterly cold Indiana to sunny, warm Florida.  Tonight we will stay with friends in Tennessee. Becky Gillum and her husband Don are our hosts. Becky is a fellow Ironman and it will be fun to add a fourth lady to the group for the night. 

The six hour drive was filled with laughter and much-needed girl talk. We arrived in Tennessee feeling refreshed and joyous. Becky had advised us that her house had "exploded with Christmas" and we were not disappointed. Decorating is evidently Becky's gift. The lovely house was tastefully "Christmas-ed". Every room appeared to be an exhibit in a fine art museum with over 500 Santas, mostly antique, artfully displayed. A beautiful home and a perfect sanctuary for the night. 

It was a wonderful, relaxed evening. Just what I needed. 

My life has been quite turbulent recently. This first day of our trip, surrounded with love and laughter, has renewed my spirit.  As I stretch in the big, comfortable bed ending the day with evening meditation, I am at peace. 

Day Two...driving to Chattenooga, TN to tackle the Ironman bike course. 

To be continued...

Chance of RAIN

2013 has been an amazing year so far.  I've had so much fun and have met some wonderful new people. Athletically, it's been extremely fulfilling. Every day I learn a little more about my sport. Every day I grow and push myself to my limits. Every day is a gift.

While I have concentrated on all three disciplines of triathlon in my training, my primary focus for the first six months of 2013 centered around cycling.  It is my passion. I have logged 3,900 miles in the saddle the first six months of the year. This was largely due to training for and the completion of of my biggest cycling endeavor to date; RAIN/Ride Across INdiana. July 13, 2013. From Terre Haute, IN to Richmond, IN. One day, one way, 160 miles. It was an absolutely incredible experience. 

I planned to ride RAIN with several close cycling friends. We made the journey to Terre Haute, an 80 mile drive from Indianapolis, Friday evening.  We reached the city too late to make packet pickup so we grabbed a late dinner and retired to the hotel, arranging to meet in the parking lot the next morning at 5:30am.

The morning arrived with crystal clear blue skies and cool temps. We made our way to the venue and prepared our equipment for the day. Excitement was in the air.  It was my kind of heaven with cyclists everywhere, race atmosphere abound and the familiar nervous excitement building inside of me. I had trained for this ride for months, and I was ready.

We underestimated what time to arrive at the starting line and found the field was set. As such, our group was forced to start toward the back of the pack.

We were still optimistic.  The gun sounded the start of the ride.  The first 30 miles was difficult as we volleyed for position. We slowly made progress, passing slower riders and eventually hooking up with a good pace line with faster riders. We gained speed and regrouped at the first SAG stop.

The next couple of legs were faster. Adrenaline took over. We discovered another factor imperative in this ride: teamwork.  This is not a solo endeavor.  We attached to good, fast groups and made up a lot of time taking advantage of drafting opportunities.  Unlike triathlon, drafting is completely legal in most cycling events.

As the afternoon approached, the winds picked up and were directly in our faces.  This made riding twice as difficult unless drafting was utilized. As the afternoon progressed, the field of riders was largely dispersed, and our little rag tag group was left to face the wind alone.  The last 40 miles was tough.  We were tired, saddle sore and one was extremely hung over.  To make matters even worse, the final 40 was a steady, gradual climb into the wind.  It took all of our strength to keep pedaling.

During the last two miles two of our Indianapolis riding buddies caught up to us and we crossed the finish line together.  I had never been more thrilled to get my ass off the bike!  The sense of accomplishment far outweighed any pain or stiffness that I was feeling.  I had done it!  Ridden across the state.  Amazing!

My goal was to finish in 9 1/2 hours, based on my performance in training.  When it was all said and done, it took me 11 hours but hell...I finished!  Many did not. RAIN was tough.  I was a rookie just out to do her best, one pedal stroke at a time. We encountered several obstacles:  a 14mph headwind all day, we got off to a late start (we started at the very back of 1,400 riders), we didn't use time wisely at our SAG stops (SAG = Support And Gear), and did not adequately prepare leading up to the event.  Training is not enough.  I am chalking this year's ride up to be a fun learning experience and knowledge gained of what we need to improve next year.

One example: corn fields make perfectly acceptable potty stops.  No lines, no waiting.

Post RAIN, my focus shifted back to the swim and run portions of multi sport.

My next event is in a little over a week.  Ironman Steelhead 70.3 in Benton Harbor, MI.  My "A" triathlon of the season. I did this race last year and my goal this year is to PR (personal record) the race. I will be joined by a large Indianapolis triathlon circle group of friends and it will be a fun weekend! I'll keep you posted...

Peace out xoxo

The Humbled Cyclist

Something has been up with my cycling mojo, and last week wasn't good.  I was off my game.  Granted, there was a lot going on and I was preoccupied with my daughter, but cycling always grounds me.  This being said, my riding performance last week was humbling to say the least. I fell down on three successive rides. The falls were not graceful and were not in some grandiose or exciting fashion such as a dramatic crash, a pothole or an errant animal darting out in front of me. No...I've fallen over while completely stopped or coming up to a stop.

Now, I've heard that a successful blogger is able to poke fun at themselves, well I suppose this is my time. A little self-deprecating humor is good for the soul. And in this case I just have to laughi!  It's so ridiculous it is really kind of funny.

I know I've mentioned once or twice that my favorite discipline in multi sport is to ride my bike. The bike leg of a triathlon is always a no brainer, as I enjoy the training. So far this year I have logged 2,900 miles in the saddle.  My goal is to cover 6,000 miles by the end of the year.  This is my fourth year as a serious cyclist. My point? I have enough experience that I should know how to come to a stop without landing on my ass on the pavement!

Last Saturday was the first.  The dawn's dim light greeted me as I loaded my bike and gear into my car.  It was 6:30am and it seemed the rest of the neighborhood was still sleeping. It was eerily quiet, except for the birds singing their morning wake up call.  I hummed along, to a song I had listened to the night before which was stuck in my head. I chuckled to myself as I knew the tune would likely be with me the entire day. It was.  My mood was light and I was looking forward to my weekly group ride.

It was with a group of experienced cyclists whom I've learned a great deal from through the years. I respect them and their ability.  Near the end of the ride we were approaching a 4-way stop, and I shifted to a faster gear in preparation for gaining speed after the intersection.  I literally was not gauging how close I was to the cyclists already stopped and had to stop short while still clipped in to my pedals, leaned the wrong direction and went down.  Everyone rushed to my aid and I could feel the redness creep to my face.  I was mortified. This hadn't happened to me since my beginner days.

The very next day I was riding with a group of triathletes.  Different dynamic, as we ride without drafting.  I was more relaxed than I had been the previous day, as there was no wheel to wheel pace line.  While we still rode in a group, the triathletes were spread out, almost as if each of us was riding solo and in aero position.  Fast.  Just the way I like it! At the 30 mile point, three of us decided to get in some additional mileage and kept riding. About 20 miles later we stopped at a parking lot to refuel and discussed directions home. I was pulling up next to the other ladies thinking about grabbing a Gatorade from a nearby store when BAM....down I went.  WTH??  Again, mortified.  This time a huge bruise and a scrape on my left knee, and a "crunch" sound as my head collided with one of the girls' pedals.  I lay there stupefied, until they helped me up.  What was the matter with me?  Two days in a row!

I  took a few days off from cycling. Monday was a necessary rest day spent with my daughter during and after her surgery.  Tuesday I swam and got a massage, as my neck was painfully stiff.  Wednesday was a swim/run day. Thursday I had a 50 mile ride with two other cyclists planned.  As you can imagine, I hadn't slept well all week and had a dull migraine headache. Still, I was determined to proceed with the ride. We chatted as we prepared to ride.  I put my helmet on then climbed onto my bike. As soon as I clipped in, I leaned the wrong way and went down.  I said out loud "are you honestly, seriously kidding me with this?" I hadn't even gotten out of the parking lot. Hell, I hadn't even started pedaling yet. Blood formed over an immediate bruise on my right knee.  I was going to look lovely in shorts this weekend.

What's that expression...bad things happen in three's?  Am I done with the falling down phase? I vote "yes".

It gave me pause, along with painful scrapes and bruises.  What the heck was my problem?? Was I getting to cocky?  Can girls be cocky?  Hmm....maybe I should call it "over confident" instead.  That sounds a bit more appropriate for a woman.  Perhaps it's a matter of being distracted by my thoughts or lack of balance during the three incidents.  Who knows.  What I do know is it's embarrassing.  Hugely so. To unceremoniously fall on the ground in front of other cyclists.  Not to mention passing motorists. (I know, you're laughing.)   Maybe it's the Universe's way of reining me in and reminding me I'm not invincible.  If that's the case, then I suppose I should be grateful it was three tip overs bruising mainly my ego, and not a horrendous crash.  Knock on the proverbial wood.  I think I've gotten the message.  The Universe has taken this girl's ego down a notch and brought me back to earth where I belong.

Yesterday I had a 100 mile ride planned.  I was nervous as I drove to meet the group.  I arrived and at least 30 cyclists were warming up at the meeting place. Great.  I only had 5 hours of sleep the night before and had eaten less-than-desirable-pre-race-nutrition at a party I had attended. Hot dog with ketchup, mustard and relish (and a bun!!!), cupcakes, etc.  Emphasis on the etc.  Not food I typically fuel my body with.  As a result, I was not feeling very enthusiastic about the ride. I was tired and my tummy hurt. I had the "let's get this out of the way" attitude.

I made it out of the parking lot without falling, and with the group as large as it was we cruised along at 24mph so the adrenaline was kicking.  I am happy to report the ride was fantastic!  Great company, great weather, no Michelle falling down!  Dare I say I have my mojo back?

Going forward I need more sleep, good nutrition and hydration and have to remain vigilant.  As I finish typing this at 12:30am on Sunday, I am hoping it makes sense.

Next time you ride with me, give me wide berth at stop signs.  Hopefully the good mojo is here to stay and I'm back on my game.  Time will tell :)

Two big events coming up:  RAIN (ride across INdiana), July 13, 160 miles in one day.  Terre Haute, IN to Richmond, IN.  I'm hoping to finish in 8:45:00.  Next event is Ironman Steelhead 70.3 on August 4 in Benton Harbor, MI.  1.2mile swim, 56 mile bike, 13.1 mile run.

I got this....

Peace, out xoxo

Reality Check

Today was a wonderful day! I am feeling renewed. Taking positive action does the trick every time. In order to face the adversity I wrote about yesterday, I saddled up and indulged in a little two wheeled therapy.

I was joined by my coach and two other triathletes for a planned 30 mile ride incorporating intervals.  When we started out I protested the added sprints claiming "I wasn't feeling it".  I was still feeling a bit down. I expected a pity party. My coach wasn't hearing it. She informed me that I'm doing the intervals like it or not. No pity party for Michelle. She reminded me that I had expressed to her just that morning that I wanted to replace my sadness with something uplifting, like a good workout.  Great...me and my big mouth.

You know what?  Turns out a good kick in the ass was just what I needed. It was a definite reality check. It works far better for me than hand holding. I was reminded that I'm stronger than I sometimes give myself credit for. A little sweat, adrenaline and pushing out of my comfort zone, and I was out of my funk.  I was back in control of me.

Not to mention a teensy bit spent.

I don't have to sit in my sadness. What I have to do is move. Literally and figuratively.  I know this, but it's so easy to forget and become complacent. That was so yesterday...this is today. I kicked complacency to the curb!  

We finished the hard work and relaxed into a steady pace (18mph) for the return trip. We engaged in laughter and conversation and I was reminded how very lucky I am. My life is filled with wonderful friends (who get me) old and new, a supportive family and so many blessings.  I get to work when I want and be free to indulge in my little cycling/triathlon obsession.  We chatted about our family, upcoming races and our plans for training. The smile returned to my face, my eyes twinkled (happiness or allergies?) and I felt like myself.  Happy.

The rest of the day was spent with my kids. I went shopping with my daughter and then we picked my son up from lacrosse practice.  It was peaceful enjoying their company on the drive home.  They were both in silly moods and we joked and laughed. Good stuff.

My daughter's surgery is scheduled for Monday, June 10.  I have pulled out of my first triathlon, which was slated for June 9 in Kansas. I need to be in Indianapolis. I am in acceptance, and this time the acceptance comes in the right way. She is my priority. It was a no brainer. We are very optimistic that all will go well.

We can easily get off our game from time to time. It's part of being human. For me, I just have to remember that when this happens I don't have to be so hard on myself. I need to alleviate stress by taking time to engage in an activity to get out of myself, such as cranking my bike to 26-30mph. The release of endorphins is a proven mood enhancer!  Then I need to relax.  Meditate. It's a balance.  I love to push my body to it's limits, yet know I must be careful with my soul.

As I lounge in bed writing, I feel that I am correctly placed on my proverbial teeter-totter today. My inside matches my outside, as it should.

I want to give  special shout out to my coach, Catherine. Her strength is to be admired and emulated, and being in her presence was just what I needed today.  Also to my good friends Lisa and Monika who are always there for me and to Marcy, who I got to know a little better today. You all brought sunshine to me today and reminded me that I'm amazing.  (If I do say so myself).

It's great to be back!

Peace, out

It's Raining It's Pouring...

I registered for the 3 State 3 Mountain Challenge on December 12, 2012. My training since then has been mainly geared toward climbing hills to prepare myself for cycling in the mountains. I trained diligently for 5 months, largely indoors in the winter then bundled up for outdoor rides during the cold spring months. As time progressed, my excitement was building. The week prior to our departure was a whirlwind as my thoughts became consumed with the upcoming event.

Cycling is an extremely dangerous sport. In the saddle of the bike you are vulnerable and susceptible to peril by wind, rain, dogs, cars, mistakes by other cyclists, distraction, stupidity of oneself, etc.  The list is endless. Cycling puts me in dangerous situations every time I ride.  I frequently ride solo for long periods to train for triathlons. I also ride in packs with other cyclists at dizzying speeds with our wheels inches from each other in a pace line.  I will climb, then hurtle myself down the other side at speeds of 35-40mph. All are dangerous situations in their own right.

I approach cycling with a healthy dose of fear (a.k.a. knowledge of the reality of what could happen.)  I remain diligent at all times.  I refrain from using my phone, do not listen to music, take pictures or fiddle with my gadgets.

The weekend finally arrived, we packed the cars and headed down to Chattenooga, TN as planned Friday morning. We knew the weather forecast was not favorable, but were remaining firm in our belief the rain would pass and we would ride as planned. We hit the expo, picked up our race packets, took fun pictures and had dinner together. The night was filled with nervous tension, laughs and fun. When we woke the next morning, I had all of my gear for the day carefully laid out, my bike was clean and prepped, tires pumped and was in the mindset to ride when we headed down to meet for breakfast at 6am.  Until I looked out of the window, then checked the weather radar.  It was a deluge. Literally. It rained, it was cold and it was dark. The weather forecast had been dismal, and it played out as anticipated.The conditions were horrible. Climbing mountains on a road bike is dangerous under normal conditions, especially the long, very steep downhills. Today's forecast was for highs in the mid 50's, steady heavy rain and very poor visibility. The storm seemed to be locked directly across the three state area and up into Kentucky.

After much deliberation, a large number of cyclists including myself, opted out of the race.  It was the most difficult decision I've had to make in a long time. As an experienced cyclist, I know the risks and I was not willing to succumb to the dangers of riding in such conditions. It seems many who attempted did not get far onto the course before turning back and very few finished the 100 miles. There were 2 fatalities, sadly. Numerous crashes. Cases of hypothermia. I am happy to report that everyone in my group was unscathed.

I was disappointed.  It was devastating that something I had looked forward to for so long was taken by Mother Nature. Things did not go as planned. I tend to still have my issues with wanting to control, so it was a major let down.

However, through it all I rallied and remained positive. Since we returned to Indiana earlier than anticipated, we had the rest of the weekend free. Some of us decided to do a hundred mile ride in Indianapolis on Sunday, to get in the mileage.  It was rainy and windy, but there were no mountains!  We completed the ride safely, and it was a nice consolation to what might have otherwise been a weekend gone bust.

I am grateful for the experience. I grew from this, and will apply this growth to life. Disappointment will come but it's how I handle it that matters. Instead of muscling through and plunging into a ride I knew was dangerous, I followed my gut and opted for safety.  It was the right thing to do. Think before I leap, then handle the repercussions with grace. Keep on moving forward.

Three Mountains

Well, my bike and gear are loaded, my bags are packed and at 7am tomorrow morning I'm off on my next adventure...the 3 State 3 Mountain Challenge, in Chattenooga, TN. By now I am sure you have gathered I am a little, shall we say, daring. I see the word challenge and it's too good to pass up.

I love a fast pace line!  Adrenaline anyone?

It seems as if it was just a short time ago, as I was musing about the 2013 race season plans, I may have mentioned this event. And here we are!  It is hard to believe today is May 2 and the season is underway.

I'm ready. I've trained for climbing and I am (for the most part) confident going into this weekend. My goal is to relax and enjoy the day. The only kink in the plan is there is a 70% chance of rain on Saturday. Alas, as always I am putting a positive light upon the forecast and am hopeful for sunshine. (Smile, with fingers crossed.)

I am traveling in good company. I have the great fortune to have made some pretty wonderful friends who share the love for the sport of cycling and triathlon. The group I am traveling with has participated in this event many times in the past, but for me it will be a first. I'm psyched!  In one day we will cycle 100 miles, cover 3 states and 3 mountains with rolling hills in between. The start is in Tennessee, then traveling through a portion of Alabama, part of Georgia then back to Tennessee. The rain will add to the challenge.

http://www.chattbike.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=63&Itemid=37

I will update you, and hopefully have photos to share after the weekend!  I hope you have a splendid weekend as well, and happy Cinco de Mayo!!

A Little Ride in Kentucky

What do you get when you take a beautiful stretch of historical land in the heart of Kentucky, and bring in 50 cyclists from different parts of the country for a 151 mile, two day cycling tour?  A lot of fun, laughter and adventure. A delight for all of the senses.  It was a fantastic weekend and I feel privileged to have been part of it. 

Thirteen of us made the trip down from Indianapolis.  The route: The scenic Bourbon Trail.  The ride would take us through iconic Civil War battlefields, breathtaking green pastures of thoroughbred farms, fields of beautiful flowers and several famous distilleries.  The Kentucky countryside boasts rolling hills and some challenging climbs.  The ride promised to be provocative, and it most definitely was.  After the lunch stop at the Makers Mark distillery, the group thinned out as riders departed at varying times.  I rode most of the afternoon with my girl, Monika.

By the time we reached the overnight rest stop at mile 101.3 (a little longer than expected due to a few wrong turns) we were tired, sore and famished.  The rest stop was a picturesque farm labeled The Farm Bed and Breakfast, in Danville, KY.  It is a family owned and operated oasis.  We checked in, took turns showering, pitched our tents in the pasture and settled in for the night.  The sunset was beautiful.  We were served a delicious country-style catered dinner.  Pulled pork, coleslaw and farmer baked beans.  Melt-in-your-mouth brownies for dessert.  (Don't ask how many I put down...it wasn't pretty!)  

The next morning came with temperatures in the lower 30's.  We layered up, broke down the campsite, ate a delicious breakfast with fresh food right from the farm, and packed to depart.  The race director's family provided additional SAG support for all of our things.  We saddled up and set out for a chilly start to the day.

We encountered some interesting characters along the way!

Bikers meet cyclists...they were fascinated by us and our bikes:

The day brought more climbing, additional photo-ops and a lot more fun.  We completed the ride after 60 miles, including one very gravely road.

It was a ride rich in American history, the beauty of nature and active cycling. A feast for the eyes, mind and body.  My spirit was tickled by every moment of the experience.

All in all I would give the weekend a B+.  The only aspect I would have liked to see different was the temperature.  10 degrees warmer would have been ideal!  But I'll take what we were given.  It was a wonderful experience, and I will return next year!  In two weeks the same Indianapolis crew (and more) will travel to Chattanooga, TN for the 3 State 3 Mountain 100 mile ride.  I'm ready to tackle the mountains!

If you're interested in these rides, here are the links:

The Bourbon Cycling Tour: http://www.thebourboncyclingtour.com
3 State 3 Mountain: http://www.chattbike.com/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=63&Itemid=37

Perhaps you'd like to join me?