We love cycling. We both enjoy riding and I like collecting and building bikes as well - go figure.
Last weekend we were invited by Linda's father to Springfield, Mo. to participate in a group ride of 100mi. We have ridden as far before but it was almost 100 degrees that day putting the heat index about 106 - and not a dry heat at all!
As an aside, my last ride in this type heat was my first long solo venture in Italy last year. After days of 80s it hit nearly 100 degrees for one day and I didn't even know it. Soaking in the experience and challenge I became dehydrated and, badly cramping, pulled off the road, sitting on a pile of dirt, out of water on a lonely Tuscan pass. I was demoralized, tingling from head to toe, and angry at myself. I finally limped(make that rode - I NEVER walked!) into a familiar town for water and some gelatto and eventually made it home having enjoyed the opportunity. I restored my pride a few days later with a 67 mi route to Volterra climbing nearly 10,000 ft for the day!
Anyway, back to the topic at hand. Springbike is my father in law's local riding club and they do a good job on these events. It was set up like the MS150 with frequent stops for water and snacks.
There were about 320 riders that day, most of which decided the 75 mile course would be enough. On a bike, I tend to be a bit masochistic. Voluntary pain and endurance through what makes other quit is what it's all about. If it was easy, everyone would do it!
Basically, the route took us in a counter-clockwise rural loop around Springfield.
I started a little frustrated as I had wanted to ride to the start and, even after driving, we were there at the last minute. Some cheaters had left starting as early as 6am to usurp the heat putting to rest any hopes of us staying with a group - much less the lead group. Linda stopped for last minute instructions but I took off to hang in with a group of about 10 just pulling out. Hey wait, it's a ride - not a race!
There was good company, great support - with plenty of carbs, good route markings, and excellent roads with lots of rolling hills. That northern tip of the Ozarks has great riding IMO and I would do such a ride each weekend if I had the chance.
We finished 15 minutes apart and here's how we looked afterward at the pizza tent.
Linda did the 75mi as planned and I was one of the few idiots to do the full century. Sushi later that eve made it all worthwhile!
