Yesterday John and I attempted our first 300K after successfully finishing three 200K events. The ride was sponsored by Tony Goodnight/ Bicycle for Life. About 40 riders, riding 200K, 300K, 400K, and 600K. The ride started at midnight, our first taste of night riding. It was fun riding in the dark with only self-provided light. Except for the barking dogs, lots of barking dogs.
Sad to say, we were DNF. My bike chain broke at about mile 86, right before the first control. Tony and his super repair-powers fixed the chain and derailleur but it put us more than an hour behind. And frankly, I am silly
slow to begin with. Later, we missed a turn, due to missing street sign and following what we thought was a detour. We missed the second control and decided to stop.
Our lovely children, Ian and Emma came to our rescue while we relaxed at the local Dairy Queen. 125 miles = 5,000 calories.
After this attempt, I had a few realizations. I either need to get faster or John needs to ride at his own, faster pace. I also need to
ride a different bike, the Surly LHT with Schwalbe marathon Supreme tires makes slow me even slower. Switching to my rejuvenated 1985 Bridgstone T-700 touring bike.
Beth- How hilly was this ride? I'm thinking of doing it this year.
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Dave-- hilly. Some good climbs early in the ride up to Sparta. But you can do it.
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