perhaps a bit too cryptic in my original post ....
i'm referring to hemorrhoids & anal fissures. not plagued with multiple of any, but sense they could creep into the picture unless my behavior on the saddle is modified. saddle is in season 6, treated regularly, and adjusted to the best of my ability fore & aft/ to & fro. i am riding "better" in strength & distance, so i am concluding diet & conditioning are coming into greater consideration for continued success.
there's also a possibility (input welcome) i may have started riding too much too soon this season.
not ready to give up yet!