El tour de Phoenix, the aftermath
This past Saturday was the El Tour de Phoenix. Last year I "raced it" and had a blast, despite being WAY undertrained & being dropped by the lead pack about 40miles into the race when I bonked. This year, I was on my own again but I felt much stronger and I had my NEW bike! I was hoping to finish somewhere around 3:10ish. The morning went perfectly. Arrived at a great time, got a good spot up front in the platinum section. Potty break, check, ready to go! The first mile was pretty good. I stayed to the far right side not close to anyone. Of course I had to work harder, but I'd rather work harder than get too close. My lungs suddenly FROZE up. I think the instant rush of adrenaline plus the cool weather. I pulled out my inhaler & took a couple of puffs. I pulled up a little closer to the pack, but still kept my distance. We were going about 28miles per hour, but I noticed it felt SO much easier than last year. My new bike responds SO well and, I know I