I made it!!!

What a day. I knew that sometime this month I was going to be riding out to Bartlett Lake again. Dave had already told me weeks ago to be prepared for it, so I really was. I got the message on Tuesday afternoon that Wednesday was the day...so I was ready.

Let me refresh your memory. The last time I biked to Bartlett (towards the end of summer last year) I said I would never do it again...but I was probably fresh off the ride and tired. It was miserable. My will was bigger then my ability at the time and the ride really was too much for me. I had pretty much begged Dave to let me try it.... I walked almost every hill, both up and down. My legs were not strong enough at the time, though I did finish it. Remember, I had a flat and had to go into Cave Creek, which added another big climb so I was not happy most of the ride...and that's a long way to go when you're not happy. Okay - is it all coming back to you know?

When Dave posed the Bartlett challenge I was a little excited, but then not so much. Here's why....I knew this time I could ride those hills. After all the hill riding Dave makes me do I just kinda knew that my legs were ready this time...I had more confidence in my ability. Not excited because that's a long & lonely ride - plus the traffic makes it a stressful ride.

The longest, more challenging section was up Cave Creek Rd to the Bartlett turn. That is the longest worst climb ever. It just doesn't stop and as I passed every section I walked the last time my confidence grew and grew. I was really proud of myself for putting in the effort that I did. I stood up and pounded it up that hill as best I could and when I finally reached the top I knew everything else to come was icing on the cake.

By the time I reached the bottom Dave was waiting for me. I felt really good and had plenty of food so I had him drop me off at Pima and Cave Creek for a fun downhill ride home. Overall I hit 67 miles, which is now my longest ride so far. When I hit the 60 mile point things kinda started to fall apart. My legs felt fine my my back, neck, arms and hands were really feeling it and I wanted to be done at this point. One stop for cold water and a stretch and I was going to push it home....

The shower was the best I've ever had!!! A quick hike up Lookout Mtn and now my legs are done!!! Sore and tired for sure.

I'm getting my aerobars put on today. I'm in for a 2-hour bike fitting and I can't tell you how happy I am.

Hurray for all the rides up and down every freakin hill on this side of town!!! It paid off yesterday for sure...