Today was one of the last couple of Peach Peloton rides. We started at Bernd Elementary school at around 9am. The temperature was in the high 30s to low 40s and was a little damp as it had rained in the very early morning, the northern part of the rain clouds just barely scraping by Macon.
I think every time I have been on a winter training ride, from the time we get going ’til about 30 minutes into the ride, I have always asked myself, “What am I doing out here in the cold?” I don’t think I’ve answered that question yet. But as I am asking myself if I’ve temporarily lost my sanity, I know I must have a sour and mean look on my face as I push myself along on my bike and the chill from the wind forces me to grit my teeth. I imagine that I look like someone from whom you would stay away.
Anyways, those feelings last only for about half an hour, basically until my body and fingertips warm up. But today I think was the longest it has ever taken me to regain warmth and a half-way decent attitude: probably 45 minutes. It was cold out there, a little damp, muddy water was being flung into my face from the back wheels of the rider in front of me, and my fingers hurt. But as time went on, I slowly recovered, and the rest of the ride was truly one of the best this winter.
There were six other riders and myself, making a total of seven. This seemed to be the perfect number. I think we could be described as the most dedicated of the winter riders. We rode a total of about 107 or 108 miles. Throughout the ride, we had many smooth and fast rotations going. Everyone knew what they were doing and showed that they were skillful and confident in their bike-handling abilities. It was a pleasure to ride with them all.
Today was a great warm-up for the assault on Pine Mountain coming up in a week. 128 miles total. Plus sag wagon. I’m sure that will be an interesting ride. I know it will be a long one.
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