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RoadNeverTaken 70F
119 posts
11/19/2010 9:00 pm
An uninvited guest


Less than 16 hours before the gun goes off and the 40-mile El Tour race begins. I’m home from the pre-ride carb-loading party and my stuff is all ready for the morning. I hope I can sleep. I’m excited about my race tomorrow. And a little scared.

A constant wind of 15 mph is predicted. And gusts maybe up to 45mps. Most of us at tonight’s carb-loading are veteran El Tour riders and the wind was the topic of the night. Which direction? How would affect the riding up the hill at the beginning of the 40-mile? Would it be behind our back or would we be riding into it on the long ride south from Marana to Tucson? How will the wind affect our time? Have you changed your mind about how long you will take?

And the gusts. What if it comes true that there are 45-mile gusts? One big gust can knock over a rider. What’s the best strategy? Get behind a big solid rider and let him take the wind. Maybe even get a little draft. Keep watch on everyone riding around you. Keep space between you and the next rider – to the front, back and sides.

Got enough carbs with you? You’ll be beat up by the wind. At least it’s not cold, too. Supposed to be high 70s-los 80s. With the wind, you won’t know you are sweating. Got your electrolytes? Remember your sun screen. And make sure you put moisture on your lips. The wind will leave you chapped and dry.

Gettin’ a little bored by my route. Wind might be an interesting change. A little bit more of a challenge. Needed a challenge. But be watchful. Don’t hotdog. Everyone will make it to the finish line. See ya there.

Skipper_too 68G

11/19/2010 9:57 pm

Good luck to you. The wind will be a factor for sure. It seems that the wind is always a factor whether from the side or front. Stay hydrated.


RoadNeverTaken replies on 11/20/2010 8:07 pm:
Interesting riding with 20 mph headwind. I saw a LOT of riders with leg cramps. Don't remember that before. We looked like a bunch of cranes as we tried to stretch our quads on the last rest stop!

katylovesjazz 73F
696 posts
11/20/2010 12:18 am

Hang in there, girl. You have trained and done your homework. I bet you have a terrific day. Can't wait to hear how it went. Lots of us here are cheering you on. You're going to be great!


RoadNeverTaken replies on 11/20/2010 8:09 pm:
Thanks! I feel good about it. But to ride the 66-mile next year, I'm going to have to train harder! Just in case there is a headwind like this year!

bloodhoundbob66 80M

11/20/2010 11:33 am

My advice from up here in the big, bad town of Dewey is to somehow sneak a little motor on that bike and a gyro system to keep Your balance.....it ain't cheatin' if ya don't get caught!....


RoadNeverTaken replies on 11/20/2010 8:11 pm:
I asked a motorcycle cop to throw me a tow rope and tow me into the finish line. That's about as close as I could get to a motor!

Baby1950 74F

11/21/2010 1:50 pm

Well, it is Sunday, Road....Can't wait to hear how you did. After all the carb loading and the practice runs and the wind factor, etc.....I bet you did great. I am sooo envious.