[TAutry]

Matt,

I would like to know more about the South Carolina ride. How long is it? How have you been training? What kind of equipment will you be using?

I began to think some time ago that I might like to try a biking event. Your information and thoughts might help me decide.

Travis

[MattB]

TAuatry,

Sorry I haven't gotten back to you sooner! I went over to my grandmothers to help her pack some stuff as she is getting ready to move to MI.

Anyway, the SC ride is 150 miles over two days...So basically 75 each day. My training consists of three days of intervals and commuting, then some long mile days..I try to log about 200+ miles every week. But am also training to become a racer..So, if I was only training for the Tour, I wouldn't bother with intervals!! They suck!

A new challenge for this year is to ride at least one century every month..So far I have missed two months, so hopefull I can get on track with this challenge.

Equipment wise, I just bought a Specialized Allez Elite road bike that I'll be riding..Last year I did it on a 17 year old Bianchi!! 2 years younger than me!!! I'll be wearing regular cycling clothes..Lycra shorts, lightweight jersey, helmet, clipless pedals/shoes and most important, sunglasses!! I rode without them last year, and I still get a headache just thinking about it.

If you ride at all, you can pull off the first day! The rides have food/rest stops every ten or so miles, plus there are lots of riders, and SAG wagons if you need them...And there is no rush, it took some people 8 hours to complete the first day whereas me and my friends did it in 3 1/2 hours. Wear comfy clothes, bring lots of water, wear sunscreen and sunglasses, and you'll be fine. Go for it dude! It's a blast!

[Gina]

i would die before the end of the race ....they would be carrying me on a stretcher

[TAutry]

Matt,

Thanks for the energetic reply!

After my inital bike adventure on Saturday, I am certain that I am far from ready to tackle a lengthy ride. If I can keep motivated and get on a semi-serious training schedule, maybe by next year I will be ready to try something. Thanks for the encouragement.

Travis

[MattB]

Originally posted by TAutry
Matt,

Thanks for the energetic reply!

After my inital bike adventure on Saturday, I am certain that I am far from ready to tackle a lengthy ride. If I can keep motivated and get on a semi-serious training schedule, maybe by next year I will be ready to try something. Thanks for the encouragement.

Travis

I bet you could do it. Seriously. But if you want to set your goal for next year, that's great too. There are tons of resources on the internet for getting motivated and setting up a program of sorts. If you don't mind a little bit of advertising, I hang out at bikeforums.net alot, and you'll be able to get all the motivation you need, plus help with training. Cycling is the greatest form of sport, and exercise in the world.....IMO of course!!

[statdeac]

Go, Travis, Go!

[TAutry]

Let's see if I can get to ride number 2, before I tackle the world. OK?

Travis