Sprints

Austin is on spring break this week, so Taylor is watching him for us. When I got home from work, they had created a nerf gun war zone in Mike’s garage. Austin enjoyed spending the day with Taylor and playing video games. I was able to go on the Monday night KBC ride with Taylor and Mike. The ride is a 31 mile roller through Lawton. The groups were divided in the parking lot, with our group deciding to split during our ride. I have no idea of my speed, as I still need put a computer on my new road bike, a 2007 Cannondale System Six. I love the bike; it makes the roads smoother and climbs with ease. I needed to get in some interval work, so I started out doing the pulling. After pulling for three, 10 minute intervals, we were in Lawton with a group of six. As we were leaving town, Taylor and Knute attacked. I was stuck on the outside of the road and had to let them go. Mike and I tried for several miles to catch them, but we just couldn’t bridge the gap they opened up on the hill. They finally set-up and the six of us were back together. Taylor and I always sprint for the 8th Street sign on W Ave. I wanted to get another hard effort in so I jumped, but it was way too early. Taylor caught and passed me, but was limited by his junior gearing. I passed him a couple feet before the sign, but I was surprised and defeated when Mike went by me at the sign. His attack was perfectly timed and led out by Knute. I told Taylor there was one more sprint and I was determined to win. In typical sprinter fashion, I drafted until just before the sign. Taylor was unable to catch my wheel and I easy crossed Q Ave ahead of the other riders. I believe the sprints serve as both a mental and physical purpose on the rides. Physically, they prepare your body for all out efforts during or at the end of a race. Mentally, they teach you how hard you can push your body and give you something to look forward to on the ride. Typical after ride events for me: recovery drink, water, dinner, shower, Avery time, dishes, Austin time, Cheryl time, and bed. Tomorrow the weather will be changing for the worse, strong storms and colder temperatures are on the way