Training run to San Diego

I completed my first major ride of my life yesterday.  My first Century and then some, 115 miles in total from downtown LA to  San Diego (well actually about 20 miles north of downtown SD). Our group was 15 in total that started out, and we ended up with 11 riding Amtrak back from the Encinitas station.

My thoughts on the trip…

• Riding with a pack is definitely easier.  Every time i slowed up and got behind the pack it was impossible to catch up. Having a group there to motivate, as well as draft off of paid off big time.
• Mechanical failures suck! Having the bike break down is not only frustrating but it can be dangerous. Whether it was chains slipping off or my loose crank arm (at least i had brought my 2 lb ratchet with me) it is not the business to be dealing with crap like that while you’re riding.  An example of the danger part: While riding through Camp Pendleton in a pack of 6 one riders chain slipping caused me to slow down and wobble, causing the rider behind me to clip my rear wheel.. causing them to crash.. and me to look back.. forgetting i was clipped in to the pedals.. and fell over.  At least none of us were seriously hurt.. just some humble pie this time!
• Going over 100 miles is hard.. really.. really hard.  I just about wanted to call it quits at about 80, but slowed down the pace and kept pushing with my coach Tony’s encouragement.
• My knees got pretty sore.. I’m wondering what the best preventative means i can take is to make sure this doesn’t become a repetitive  problem.