Regaining the Love

Redlands ended up in a similar fashion to SDSR but for much different reasons. I went into the race MUCH more prepared than I was for SDSR and even though I did not get onto the first or second page of results I was proud of my ride as it was the first consistent time trial I have done all year. Going into the road race I was so nervous I almost vomitted the first 5k. I barely made it over the first Queen of the Mountain climb w/ a small group off the back and chased back on the descent pretty easily. Not long after that though, I realized I had a flat. I raised my right arm and drifted to the back of the group. I waited for the neutral support vehicle and had the slowest wheel change I have ever experienced followed by the worst motor pace ever. It took me almost 20-25 minutes of chasing and trying to work between the carivan to make contact again. And it happened right before the next QOM. Awesome. I simply coulndt hold on and rode the next 2+hours solo. I got time cut by 6 minutes. 2010 is another season that I will not finish Redlands. 2011 will be it.

The girls jumping for joy at our lovely host house in Redlands :)

I have realized that my relationship with my bike will be great preparation for any future relationship and marriage down the line. I have written about it before, but this sport is so mental, and at times, is a love-hate relationship. After Redlands, I was in the hate aspect of the relationship. I didnt want to ride or even look at my bike. The next week I rode a total of four hours and took fri-sun completely off. I even went out with my friends, went wine tasting, enjoyed a few days off doing "normal people" activities. It felt good, but come Monday I was ready to clip in again.

Me and the bestie wine tasting in Pleasanton :)

I had a GREAT workout on Tuesday, saw the highest power readings I have seen in almost 6 weeks! I guess my anger and depression at the bike and my future w/ the sport was my body's way of getting through to me when I had ignored it for so long. I had needed rest, desperatly. My mind and body are much more refreshed and ready for business. Too bad I got sick on Wednesday and havent really had a chance to train....but I went into Merco this year a bit over rested and that was the best race I have had all year. Sea Otter here I come.

Also, a move in on the horizon. SOON on the horizon. As in 10 days soon. I am LA bound as of April 21st and am SO excited for the new opportunities in store for me. I will be stoping in Santa Barbara on the way down to do some group rides and catch up with good friends. SO EXCITED.