I've got a Century coming up this weekend, Cruising the Conejo. I rode it last year as my first ever century, completed in a bit over 7 hours. In August, I did Cool Breeze and finished in 6:30. So, I’ve done two long rides and lived to talk about it. “Cruising” is a local ride to me…my area….my neighborhoods…geez, the darn thing passes a couple of blocks from my house! There are no surprises on this route and I ride these areas regularly enough to know where the potholes are!


For some reason, I’ve just lost my mental edge altogether! I went out last Saturday and did some of the hill climbs (‘cause the route has 6000+) and in the middle of Mulholland, riding alone (as usual) under foggy, cold and overcast skies, I just hit a wall and said “Ah, I’m going home.” I made a half-hearted attempt to continue into Hidden Valley. In the end, I completed 33 miles instead of the 50 I had planned. Did an easy 14 yesterday but I don’t know…I am already doing self-talk “Well, maybe I’ll just do the Metric” It seems the idea of a full day of riding feels repulsive!

I have no more training this week, just laying low. I’m hoping the crowd will energize me. Help!

Sheldon