K1 Bike race completed
What a weekend – the weather gods were really kind for my first K1 cycle challenge on the Coromandel.
The anticipation of lining up on the starting line – one of 800 odd riders with a grueling 98 ks of some of Coromandels most challenging roads to look forward too ….. I must admit to being a tad nervous. Luckily I had made the ride 2 weeks earlier so I knew what I was in for.
Well the hooter went and we started, a few of us designed our race strategy….this lasted for 5 minutes when I made a break before the first major hill. From that point I decided to push myself and I never saw my mates again. Training on the peninsula I found the hills relatively easy the down hill however scare the pants off me and the first was no exception as the speed wobbles took over at the bottom of the Kopu Hikauai – just about had to change my bike shorts!!!!
After that experience I was alive with the worst behind me so it was head down bum up and hard work. I went through the emotions as my legs cramped, bum hurt and fatigue was trying to get the better of me. I was not going to break and with a huge amount of pride and satisfaction and after fighting a vicious head wind for the last 10 ks I crossed the finish line in 3 hours 45 minutes.
Not a bad effort for an over weight 54 something who started riding only 6 months ago. So challenge yourself and live life to the fullest…..you only get one chance.
Cheers On Your Bike Mike
November 01 2009 05:39 pm