Ride for the Roses Recap

We made it! Ride for the Roses was easily the most demanding event I’ve completed. I am sore and bruised up…but very satisfied.

Friday October 24th…

The only lazy day of the weekend. We went to the Expo and picked up our race packets and a few freebies. When I opened up my XL t-shirt, it looked a little big. After walking around for a bit and checking out the bikes/accessories that I so cannot afford, I decided to go ask for a smaller size. I explained to the volunteer that I got an XL…and before I could ask to exchange it, he interrupted me by saying “and that’s too big, isn’t it?” I could have kissed this man. So…I skipped away with a beautiful size L t-shirt…wooohoooooo! I purchased a very cool USPS pro cycling team shirt. It’s in my new size…bright yellow…and supports the LAF. The perfect souvenir. 🙂

Saturday, October 25th…

The Run for the Roses 5K started at 8:30am. We got to the park early to walk around and take in the sights. I nearly passed out when the emcee introduced Lance. Holy Shit! I had no idea he was going to make an appearance at the run. Both events benefit his foundation, but I figured he wouldn’t make an appearance until the Big Ride. I am totally in awe of this man. *sigh* He thanked the crowd for coming out and supporting the cause (no problem, snookums). Jo Dee Messina sang the National Anthem and the 5K began. The weather was pretty warm and humid, but we were able to knock out the distance and finish with a decent time. Our group stayed for the awards ceremony…hoping to win one of the autographed prizes, but it was not meant to be. *pout*

We headed back to the hotel for lunch and a nap (athletes need their rest…especially posers like us…LOL). Later in the afternoon, Chesty and I hit the road in search of Halloween costumes. We found the Goodwill Halloween shop and it was a goldmine. Chesty found a cute space girl outfit, so she’s going to be Judy Jetson. Jersey Girl is loaning me her Dorothy from the Wizard of Oz  (or in my case, The Wiz) dress and another friend is giving me shoes and the ruby bling-bling dust, so all I need is a wig.

Saturday night we met up with a few of Jersey Girl and Hubby’s friends for dinner at the Hula Hut. Chesty and I felt like strangers in a strange land, but the fajitas were good. LOL Guess I should have ordered some tequila…the ultimate icebreaker. We headed back to the hotel early…in need of sleep (and prayer) for the ride.

Sunday, October 26th…

Oh my goodness…it’s actually time to do the damn thing. I had a major case of the nerves. I’m usually fairly organized on a trip, but while gathering my belongings to check-out, I left all 3 of the room keys locked inside..with my bike! The extended stay property actually closes overnight, so there was no one at the front desk. I called the manager of the property (who happens to live onsite, thank the Lord) and she was able to let me in. *phew*

When we arrived at the event…it was cold…windy…and raining. A cold front moved through the state overnight and dropped temps about 25-30 degrees. I can deal with cold weather…if I am properly dressed. Biking shorts don’t cut it! After debating on whether or not to ride in the crappy conditions, we all decided to be tough (crazy) and slay the dragon. The 100 mile riders began first with Lance leading the pack. Can I tell you how cool it was to see Lance actually riding his bike? That’s like watching Michael Jordan play basketball (for the Bulls..not the Wizards…LOL). After waiting for several waves to start, it was finally our turn. The wind was definitely an issue, but we kept a decent pace. After what seemed like an eternity, I asked Jersey Girl how many miles we’ve covered…her cheerful reply? “5.8 miles!” LOL What the hell? We had 20 miles left? Damn wind! It makes you think you’re working your ass off and you’re really going in slow motion. I learned a lot about my own personal strength during the ride. There were times when the wind/asthma combo had me struggling to breathe and my muscles were threatening to quit. I cried, protested, and whined…but I finished. Jersey Girl was a champ…she was determined to not cross the finish line without me, so I had no choice but to put my game face on.

The Tri Divas continue to take on challenges and somehow manage to conquer the obstacles. The bar will continue to be raised, but as long as I have my (crazy) buddies with me, I’ll be fine. 🙂

Until next time…

-C