Illini 4000

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Training for an adventure of a lifetime

So, it turns out I had never ridden more than 15 miles before I4K. Yesterday, I rode 50 and last week I rode 37 through the wind. Last Saturday was rough, no doubt. Mostly because I just was not prepared for it. I was discouraged and disappointed in myself. So I knew I had to train way more. This past week I went out for rides, went to the gym, and biked around campus since the weather was finally back to riding weather. It was great. I felt so much stronger. I wouldn't say I was ready for 50 miles, but I was definitely more prepared.Yesterday was awesome. I was able to keep up with my group members for the most part and I learned how to change a flat and how best to use my gears. I hung out with my teammates and just enjoyed the ride. It helped that I didn't fall and that my cleats didn't come lose like they did last week. I also realized that, sadly, Indian people are not able to avoid ridiculous tan lines, though mine were not as bad as other people :(Overall it was a great day. Due to Erik's ability to know directions like the back of his hand, we did not get lost and were the first group to arrive. I couldn't believe how fast the time flew. I wasn't bored at all. It was nice just to ride and enjoy the views around, the smells on the other hand....Anyway, I have some great teammates and a great group of alumni leading us through our training.After the ride, I rushed home for a fundraising event that I epically failed at reaching on time.  It's amazing to see people's reactions to what you are doing. So many people I spoke to were confused or amazed at what I was doing. It was neat to talk to people after I had done a longer ride, I definitely felt more confident about the summer.There have already been ups and downs, but I know that riding this summer will make me stronger, both mentally and physically, than I have ever been. I am excited for the prospects of this adventure of a lifetime.