Today was the all-time windiest day on the bike. Not only for me, but also for Jenna, Justin, and Paul. Sustained winds were in the 30-40 mph range with gusts up to 60 mph. We had a four person rotation going at about 8 mph all the way out to the Catalina Hwy. And this was at a tempo effort. Some how we still thought that we’d be able to ride up the mountain even though the first 5 miles would still be straight into the winds. With a sense of adventure and some good camaraderie, we persevered and made the best of the day’s conditions. In the end we each completed our respective workouts with success. I had intentions to do some more climbing post- LT intervals, but beyond mile 10 I could hardly stay on the bike and honestly I didn’t think I’d make it through the next canyon. After having some great LT work, the ascent was called short and I headed back down the mountain. The gusts were still extreme and made for a quick trip down the mountain, through town and all the way to the apartment. Finishing the day out at an easy 30 mph+ is never a bad way to finish a tough ride. Each of us would have likely bagged the ride had we of left solo so it’s cool that we fought the wind out.
It’s been five days since my first LT workout and the power is up 10+ watts as that maximal sustainable effort is found. The tough part is that I’ve got to do today’s effort all over again tomorrow. Such a challenge is a real motivation and makes for great training in the end.
Chloe’s mother, Kris, is in town visiting for the weekend and was ambitious enough to make enchiladas for the five of us for dinner tonight. Needless to say it was by far the best meal ever prepared in this kitchen. Thanks!
With only a month until the Norba opener I’m getting anxious to race at the high levels once again. The people, the events, and of course the competition all have a that irresistable appeal. Tristan has got himself a spot-on approach to the racing this year. I like it! More to come mid-week, -TJ
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