11 hours, 20 minutes on the bike. After looking at the numbers, it appears that I rode the 2nd century only a few minutes slower than the 1st century. The weather probably helped by getting a little warmer in the afternoon and my legs getting loose and being able to spin nice and easy. There are so many things that went well: no bike issues, weather, support, food, helpful friendly riders willing to work and take turns pulling, knowing almost half of the route (having rode them previously, including "The Hill") and family. It was great to have them with me.
I rode around the last turn and quickly sprinted to be at the front of my group so I could go across the line all by myself. The light then turned red and I couldn't go. As I am standing there waiting, I hear the PA announcer say something like, "We'd like to welcome the next finisher of the 2006 STP to Portland, Chris Beecher of Simi Valley, CA." It was cool. Then to ride across and to see my family waiting for me. Even better. They have put up with me and my crazy hours of riding, all for this one day. It really was special. I thought I'd suffer and have to push like mad just to finish. I thought my legs would be in terrible pain. I thought... I thought... None of this happened. I rode, keeping my heart rate in check, eating on schedule, and getting help when needed. What more can I say. Fun.
Finally, thanks to OB12OLD for the inspiration. I'd never had thought about riding or even doing the STP without having an example. Keep on riding!!
Now for the pictures...
The night before, at the park on the Sound, getting right with the right person...
At the halfway point, time to change jerseys, eat, rest, and prepare for the 2nd half.
On the road to Portland, about 30 miles from the finish. I was in a group of five riders, working the rolling hills next to the river. Thanks Craig for the picture.
Finally, at the finish, coming across the line. It was neat with the barricades on both sides and people cheering on both sides.
The support staff, minus Grandma, in Centralia, waiting. Without these guys, the above pictures would not have been possible. Thanks. You look marvelous!!
1 comment:
Nice!! 200 miles checked off. Like I said, this will make the HHH a walk in the park. But we all can have a bad day.....look at Floyd!!...See ya in August
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