I did it! (Part II)
Part II(a)
Today I rode The Epic Century. I started out feeling weak, tired and sore. I rode anyway. I had to SAG twice, for five or six miles each time. And I didn’t do the 15-mile loop at the end to round out the century. But I felt pretty good about my effort and brief moments of disappointment were completely overwhelmed by periods of leaking eyes when I let myself think about it, that after working and training for months, I was actually doing this ride that everyone else would only read about.
The scenery, as advertised, was magnificent. Cyclists, of course, will understand why there are no photos of the descent. When I get home and go through them, pics from the whole week will be posted.
Part II(b)
Tonight at the dinner, prizes were awarded, I got two—One for longest distance traveled to attend, and the second was the “I Did It!” award for The Epic Century. Ride leaders for each ride awarded an “I Did It!” award to the person who they felt best pushed there personal envelope the furthest.
Deadhead, the ride leader for the Epic, said he’d followed my training, and doubts here, on BikeJournal, and right up to the starting line this morning, and felt that the work I put into this ride deserved the award, even if I logged only 79.59 miles. Judging by the applause of everyone at the dinner, most folks agreed (or at least were polite).
Tomorrow (Sunday) morning is the last of the event rides. Breakfast is at 7 (MT) and we roll out at 8. Off to bed.
August 3rd, 2008 at 6:54 pm UTC
Fantastic accomplishment,Bruce! Congratulations on a major biking achievement. Looking forward to some pics and stories, for sure.
August 4th, 2008 at 12:39 am UTC
I heartily applauded Deadhead’s choice. But then I didn’t know who in his mind your competition was.
As the leader of the Metric Century, I too was faced with the difficult choice in selecting a recipient of the “I did it!” award. I chose based on three criteria: 1) Who had to overcome the most internal obstacles and doubts by taking on such the challenge of a Colorado climb/descent? 2) Who took most seriously the training required for such a ride, though his or her region might not offer climbing opportunities anywhere close to Colorado’s? and 3) Who’s presence on the ride was an inspiration and a joy to others, so that such an award might encourage future inspiration and joy?
My choice, when put through those criteria, became easy. I don’t know Deadhead’s criteria, but I’ll bet his choice became easy too!
August 4th, 2008 at 10:59 am UTC
[...] I did it! (Part II) (Scenic Route) Gone missing (Sitting In) Bikes at Work (spare cycles) [...]
August 5th, 2008 at 6:53 am UTC
We lowlander , heavy air breathers are in awe of your latest accomplishments.
No more calling you grasshopper….you have now earned the distinction as …Billy Goat.
Now Bopple and Gannet should be a breeze
August 28th, 2008 at 9:40 pm UTC
Blush.