This year I am really trying to improve my bike speed and this is a perfect way to do that. You never go as fast as you can when you are alone as you do in a race environment. When you are getting passed (which I do a lot) it just pushes you to step it up. Also, when I am alone I tend to zone out after awhile & don't even realize I am slowing down. Tonight there was no chance of zoning out!
There were a total of 19 riders. My goal was to average 18 mph. Each lap is 4.25 miles & we did 3 laps. We were seeded by our estimated speed so I ended up starting first. Every 30 seconds the next rider started.
Here are my stats:
Lap 1 = 18.6 mph
Lap 2 = 18.7 mph
Lap 3 = 19.0 mph
Average = 18.8 mph
I was really pleased with my time. I am still learning how to pace myself & not fizzle out at the end so I was really happy to see that I gradually picked up the pace.
How did I rank against the other 18 time trialers? DEAD LAST! And that is OK because these athletes are just amazing. The fastest guy averaged 25.0 mph & the fastest girl averaged 21.7 mph.
After a little cool down I rode back to the car to put away my bike & gear. Well, in typical Andrea fashion I unclip left & lean right. I have no idea why I continue to do this but I can normally unclip the right really fast before I fall on my a$$. NOT tonight! My legs were so tired from the ride that I just couldn't unclip fast enough. Luckily, I landed in nice soft grass which is much better then landing on ashphalt. Unfortunately, the ego doesn't care if you fall on grass or asphalt. It hurts either way!! I do find it really funny. I am pretty sure I looked like a turtle on its back waving my legs in the air. Oh well, hopefully that was the last time I do that this year!
After I dusted myself off & put my bike on the rack I handed out about 20 aquaphor samples. Everyone was happy to get them.
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| Still smiling |
Great job on the pacing!!!!
ReplyDeleteI'm impressed by you!! I don't think I would have the guts to do a tt but now maybe I will.
ReplyDeleteThanks Ginger! Becky - Yes, TTs can be intimidating since these attract serious folks. I am trying not to focus on that. My main objective is to increase my speed & confidence on the bike. TT's will definitely do that! Fortunately, our club is really welcoming & there are a few women that come out which helps a lot. You should try one if you get the chance!
ReplyDeleteI may have to come out there for a time trial. If I show up, you can rest assured that I'll take that last place from you....
ReplyDeleteStephanie's last blog post: Two Half-Marathons - #2
Stephanie - you should come out! The group is awesome & who cares what place we come in. As long as we are having fun & improving against ourselves that is all that matters. :-)
ReplyDelete