century ride (n) - a 100-mile bike ride

Today was our team's epic 100 mile bike test. In many ways, this is our qualifying bike test for this summer. Don't pass this, and you don't ride to Alaska (for safety reasons of course). I dedicate today's ride to my long time pal Charlie Lin. I will always know him as my 7th grade buddy who used to share his gummies and capri sun with me during lunch in middle school. A kind man to say the least. He's had his bout with thyroid cancer-- overcame that, and now awaits test results from his most recent check up. I thank God for his faith.

Going into today's ride I wasn't too nervous - last week's 80 mile ride had prepared me well, and I was pretty certain I could finish it. Usually, we split off into ride groups with a set leader and a following, but not today-- which I think really worked out nicely. It was the first time I could really bike at my pace, compete with myself, and not try to keep up or slow down with the group. The ride was really wet and foggy heading out in the morning. Riding behind someone meant getting splashed like crazy (my yellow jacket is not so yellow anymore). But the sun wasn't out beating and there wasn't any wind which made today's ride much easier. About 25 miles out a girl in our group wiped out on a sharp and wet turn (she's okay!) and I narrowly avoided her bike. Nevertheless, a few seconds later one of my other teammates couldn't slow in time and ended up clipping my bike and sending me rolling. But no worries-- we only ended up with a few bruises and road rash. After this, we all started spreading out-- people going at paces more comfortable for themselves. There was this 20 mile stretch where I was biking pretty much by myself, and it was nicer than anything I think I've experienced to date on a ride. The rolling hills were amazing, the fog was gently lifting letting just the right amount of light through. I vividly remember singing songs of praise in my head as I biked through; that was a great segment of the ride. At the 50 mile rest stop in Johnson City we had some PB&J lunch sandwiches and started heading back. I'll confess these next 25 miles were the toughest all day. I had been pushing myself (because I could) and started feeling it in this next stretch. By His grace, I made it through-- slowly but surely-- and before I knew it, I was back on 360 headed towrds Austin, with one last steep hill to overcome. When times get tough, I can't help but think of the verse in James which reads: "He who doubts is like a wave in the sea, blown and tossed by the wind." and it seems to keep me pushing. Having left at about 6:30, we rolled into Austin a little later than 3:00-- summing the total to ~8 hours and 25 minutes including the rest stops in between. Climbing the stairs of Dobie back to my room, I definitely feel my legs tightening up, but as soon as I got back, I hopped in the shower and hopped into bed for a quick nap (oh it felt good...).

All in all, the day was nice-- conditions were good. After 100 miles, nothing sounded better than a nice cool shower and some real food. I'm glad we all made it through, and I'm happy to say I'm pretty sure i've improved as a cyclist. I hear the century is the biggest hump to overcome. Less than 2 months until kickoff to Alaska; in the mean time, I'll keep training and getting stronger mentally and physically. Thanks for all you guys' support, motivating and encouraging me by sharing your personal stories of encouragement with me. Until next time... keep wearing sunscreen, please stop smoking, and get routine doctor check ups :) - prevention is the best way to fight cancer!

your bro & friend,

Eric

prov 17:17