Monday, June 8th, 2015

Assistant Ride Leader’s Log. Bike Date 16.15-06-08.17:35

Yesterday I officially joined the century club! It all started off great as there was minimal wind and we had plenty of room to cycle. However, as the day went on, the wind picked up, making the last 20 or so miles quite tough. However, after completing those 103 miles, I fully understood the extent to which Illini 4000 is a test of mental endurance. There were many moments where I began doubting myself, but I kept reminding myself that I can keep going, that I can always do 5 more miles.

Today was another day for the books. I started the day as the support van driver – each day we rotate van drivers – and found a spot for our first rest stop. When their groups made it to the first rest stop, some of my teammates couldn’t ride anymore, be it knee problems, not feeling well, what have you. To both make room in the van and because I really wanted to ride, I decided to ride the remaining 55 miles. My cleats were accessible, but not my cycling shorts or socks so rode wearing my running shorts and no socks. Surprisingly I didn’t get any saddle sores, but I still don’t think I’ll be trying that again.

One other milestone of the day is that the miles from today pushed my odometer for the trip past 1,000! I still can’t fully believe that I’ve ridden over 1,000 miles already, but that also means I still have over 3,000 to go. Here’s hoping each mile is more fun than the last!