During our (me, B and my parents) drive up to Northern Michigan for my Great Uncle’s funeral, I asked my Dad if he’d consider backing off his vigorous bike-race schedule, which in 2010 will consist of 3 bike races all over 100 miles. Considering my Dad is past the big 5-0, we are all for him staying in shape but we also want him to keep it reasonable. Somehow, in the course of the conversation I struck a bargain with him. Specifically, in 2011 if he only rides one 100+ mile race, I’ll do it with him.
He said yes.
(Well. Damn.)
So, in November of 2011 I’ll be participating in the 109 mile course of the El Tour de Tucson. I have two river crossings, and have I mentioned, ONE HUNDRED AND NINE MILES TO RIDE UNDER MY OWN STEAM.
Again: Damn.
This summer & fall I plan on riding the wheels of my old clunky bike, just getting in the groove of riding a bike and learning the trails in Chicago. This winter I’ll be on a strict spinning regimen at my gym, where I”ll upgrade from my current mountain bike shoes to real road bike shoes. Next spring I’ll upgrade my bike and spend my spring/summer/fall weekend mornings getting long rides in on Chicago’s lake front path. And hopefully, next November, I’ll get a medal at the end of the course, with a side of oxygen and electrolytes. (Also: I have a full physical scheduled next month, just in case. No need to keel over!)
Anyone have any tips? I’m currently shopping for some new gear, and I’m open to any and all suggestions on gear (shorts/jerseys/gloves/shoes/chamois butt paste, YES THE INDIGNITY it actually exists/what have you/socks, etc.) I’m also looking for any protein & electrolyte replacement suggestions, bearing in mind I don’t like protein powder, gel-y food, Gatorade, Powerade, anything that doesn’t taste like water, or you know, anything remotely marketed to atheletes.
Next July I’ll greet my husband on Mackinac Island after he completes his 11th-ish Bayview to Mackinac race (one of the longest fresh water races in the world) and in November he’ll meet me et the finish in Tucson. After his race we’ll treat ourselves to fudge & lake views from a bed and breakfast, after mine I’ve demanded politely requested a massage at the spa at the Camelback Inn. Wish us luck. My behind is going to need it.
Good Luck Daisy!!! Well…it sounds like you already took care of your Father’s Day gift! LOL I’m not really sure what butt paste is or what it might do, but I hope it numbs your ass, because 109 miles is a lot of miles on a bicycle! Yikes!! I know you can do it though! You go girl!!
Wow! That’s quite an undertaking. You and your dad will have such a great bonding experience. I can’t offer any advice other than to plan, plan, plan. But, I’m sure you are and you’ll do great.
I can’t attest to much else, but Powerade Zero is great! Its really light, and not sugary and heavy like other sports drinks and has NO calories! Its so light, sometimes I just drink it regular, instead of water and without the gym! I like lemon-lime the best…the berry kind turns your lips blue.
Wow! What an amazing goal! And it sounds like it will be an incredible bonding experience for you and your dad. The journey of a lifetime, no doubt.
Awesome! Check out Eat Live Run (linked from my blog), she just did a 100-miler a few weeks ago.