80 degrees and riding with the big boys and girls

For my first group ride back in Texas I was excited because the weather was really nice for January (high of 80) and while the wind was crazy (25mph) at least I was betting that the warm temps would bring out a big group so I was not fighting the wind by myself once I got dropped. Yes, I assumed that I was going to get dropped. Saturday was the last day of the Metro VW elite team camp and all of the new team members were there for the group ride so I was pretty sure that it was going to be a pretty fast ride. My assumptions were met pretty quickly once we got out of town a little. I was able to hold on for longer than I thought that I would and after taking a short cut to get back with the group I still was not able to hold on and simply watched the big boys blow by me. I had a little more luck when the girls past me and I was able to hold on for a little longer but not much longer and soon I was by myself again. In total it was not a bad day on the bike and getting to ride with some folks who are far more talented than I will ever be was a blast.

The great weather Saturday does seem to come at a price considering that it is 31 outside with freezing rain. I guess that means that I get to take care of stuff around the house today so I can spend more time on the bike later this week.

A New Year

So looking back at this last year and thinking about this next year I am excited about all of the things that I hope to do this next year. Between finishing classes and being close to graduating, joining a new road team and getting stronger on the bike I am really looking forward to the new year.

As a tradition I went for a ride today and it was great to be back on my bike riding. The 20mph wind could have been a little weaker but it showed me exactly where my form is and where I need to be over the next few months to be able to be fast this spring. I am looking forward to the next few weeks and the time that I will have to get in those much needed miles before classes start and my riding time during the week goes down and I have to hit the trainer.

I hope that everyone had a great New Year's Eve and New Year's Day and has been able to get some time on the bike and enjoy some good football games.