Breakaway to the Beach this year was one of my most difficult rides I have completed so far. The first day was warm and quite windy. I am not sure if this was better than the rain from last year or not. The extra wind made it more difficult to stay hydrated. In the first five miles, I lost one of my water bottles when putting it back in the cage. I made the wrong decision and chose to stay with the pack instead of stopping to get the bottle. On a day like this, one water bottle was just not enough. I was OK through the first 40 miles but then started getting cramps. I was not alone, there were a lot of people along the route stopped trying to work out cramps. At about mile 55, I had a cramp that locked my legs up. I had to stop going up a hill, and could not even get off of my bike for several minutes. I was finally able to work it out and the SAG truck came by and had some extra water that they gave to me. I finally made it into lunch and then rode at a slower pace for the rest of the day. As soon as I got to the hotel that night, I found a store to buy me a new water bottle. I was not going to run out again.
On the second day, I started with out second group and kept a slower pace throughout the day. We still averaged around 16 for the 100 miles. We had one rider in our group that had MS. She was so disappointed that she was not able to make the full ride. She rode over 140 miles in the two days and then got a ride to the finish. She was determined, but we highly encouraged her to get a ride instead of doing damage to her joints.
All in all, I still finished a double century, but it was very difficult for me this year. After the first day, I was about ready to throw in the towel, but I wanted to make sure that I am setting a good example for my kids. When you commit to do something, do it. It may not always be easy, but as long as you are able, keep your commitments.
