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Training, racing, gear, facial hair styles and thoughts from my push to become an elite cyclist.

Monday, March 21, 2011

Winter, My Old Adversary Returns

I can't help but think that the weather has a sense of irony.  It's probably crazy to assign some sort of consciousness or an agenda to it, but there is really no other way for me to comprehend today's snow after the weekend's clear and sunny skies.

After a very damp and gritty ride on Thursday I was treated to remarkably dry pavement and clear skies yesterday.  Somehow the temperature was even cooperative as it somehow felt warmer than the 43 degrees reported by my home thermometer.

Out on the road things fell into place for me and all of the internal struggles about how and where to train were swiftly and emphatically decided: ride outside, on your road bike and enjoy it.  After getting back in sync with a normal work schedule on EDT I felt the strength of my European mileage in my legs.  For the first time in many months I felt strong and purposeful on the bike.  It was amazing. 

I didn't set any land speed records, but I was able to ride along comfortably by myself at 18-20 mph.  Usually I can't pull that off until May.

And then this morning I was presented with another go around with my old adversary, Vermont winter.   I know it's not forever, and I know I'll be riding outside again soon.  It's just one more week or two of creative workouts before I'm back on the bike again full bore for the season.  I can do that.  I've made it this far.

It won't be much longer.

2 comments:

  1. Got the good word I am 100% on for the 200K.

    Stopped by my buddies new work space today, 2 bridgeports, acouple milling machines, an anvil jig and a personal best wishes letter from e-richie.

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  2. Glad to hear it. I was pretty impressed with the quality of your bike, particularly the cool custom threadless stem.

    I think having handmade bikes built in the US is always a good thing.

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