Riding with pros

I could make this a single word post - "Hurts!"

When I saw who was coming on this ride it was a bit scary, but aside from some cramp in the right calf it was rather enjoyable.

Things started out sedate enough (if you can call riding Tavern to bottom of Duck Hole in 20 min sedate) but at the bottom of the climb to Centre Woz & Shaun were off like crazies with Steve and Supagav in pursuit. Thankfully Damien is on a single speed so kept me company up here.

I was half expecting the speed freaks to be off at this point but there was a small re-grouping at Centre, and again at the end of there as someone just can't fit tires properly (not to mention names - but you all know the bloke with a thing for slick German tires).

Keeping up became increasingly hard along the Perimeter Long trip but a couple of mechanicals (Damien & Supagav turnaround on the Long Track pinch climb due to buggered rear mech) saw the boys wait and got some rest and a catch up so at least the remaining riders showed up at the end almost together.

On the way home though - I was on struggle street. Had the leaders in sight until just after the junction with Permimeter then the right calf began to complain. Backed off a bit but crampy badness ensued so stopped to stretch it out. What with this and no chance of catching anyone came out on the road and spun back to the Tavern. Didn't drink anything but water on the ride - would like to blame that (normally have Endura/Gatorade mix in a bottle) but think the pace might have more to do with it.

Well, training was called for so mission accomplished - legs were cactus. Fastest 'honest' (Down the Oaks or Andos doesn't count) ride I've done off road and even faster than some commuting efforts. Funnily enough the only thing troubling me this morning is a stiff upper back/neck. Hmmmmm... ouchie:

http://trail.motionbased.com/trail/episode/view....