+1 Great post.
I've been training with my wife and oldest daughter (who are new riders), so I've been reigning it in for the most part. That's not to say that I am "fast" but I have lost a considerable amount of weight over the last two years and I am certainly "faster" than I used to be. When I did the R2R Sealy ride, neither of them could make it, so I was on my own. I averaged 18.0 mph over the 44 mile course. I was extremely happy with my effort.

I don't mind the hills. The R2R series does a great job of getting you ready for the MS150. You will know this after Fayetteville, when the cummulative effect of all those hills start wearing down the riders who haven't been training, and you pass them like they are standing still.

Next week (R2R Columbus) is another great ride. Last year the bluebonnets were out in full force. It's going to be another great weekend!