2013 Back Roads Century - the first 50

Having met Andrew and Lauren the night before, we exchanged texts early Sunday morning to arrange a meeting spot.  Soon we would be off on our journey.  Clothing was tricky.  It was cool, damp and the sun was barely peeking over the trees.  I started in shorts, jersey (duh), arm warmers, knee warmers and my jacket.  Wool socks and long finger gloves were my choice for the ride.  My digits don't like cool air especially the rebuilt one.  I chose my black sheep socks, after all I'm a mountain biker at heart!  As we rode down the first roads the morning dew glistened on the trees and grass, a few lights were on in the occasional house we passed.  There was little traffic to contend with on the narrow, two lane roads, I guess people were sleeping in.  The roads were smooth and had few pot holes.  We kept up a pretty good pace at first but were passed by many. I guess everyone had a different agenda.  We were all just trying to finish our first centuries.

We found ourselves in a group of about 10-12 people with two people in the front that were squirrelly and all over the road.  I was able to make a break and get around them when we came upon some road kill.   We rode away from that pack for a while.  Soon we would encounter the Ride for Helen squad.  Not sure who Helen is or why they were riding for her.  Unfortunately, one of their riders displayed very poor etiquette swinging out to pass a pack of riders and crossing the double yellow line.  A car nearly hit her.  Why people have to behave so poorly i will never understand. The organizers are the ones who end up fielding compalaints about people like this and their actions jeopardize the future of organized rides like this.

Anyway we meandered north and ended up in West Virginia at a park where the 25mile aide station was.  It was well stocked with food, fluids and the requisite potties.  While at the table getting a snack, I thanked a volunteer for being there.  He seemed completely stunned that someone said that.  Having been a volunteer in all sorts of roles at all sorts of event, I feel inclined to thank those giving their time up for me to enjoy a great event.  

We headed back out soon with the destination of the start line as the midpoint of the ride ass where we started.  We had crossed a few major roads during our trip. It was nice to see how other riders looked out for each other at these.  It was also very surprising when all 4 lanes of traffic stopped to let a large group of use across.  When we arrived back at thte start, I headed to my car to change out some clothing.  Off with the jacket, on with a vest.  Refilled by bottles, grabbed a sip of sweet tea.  The second half of this ride was going to be difficult. I had had too many good rides of late and I hadn't ridden a long ride in a while.  Also, the farthest I've ever ridden was 76.6 miles.  My goal was to get to 80 

The second half blog coming soon.   Sorry I've been busy.  

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