Firecracker Century

Honey Badgers ready to roll

I attempted another century ride today in Ottawa, Kansas. This course was more challenging than the Freedom Ride and the day was hotter. This time, I cried, "uncle!" and stopped after 80 miles. I could have slogged through the last 20 miles, I think, but I just didn't see the point of it. By the time I stopped, it was already 101 degrees, with a heat index of who knows (I was afraid to look at that on the Weatherbug app on my phone).

I rode with a pack of Honey Badgers (Kansas City Triathlon Club) and we were moving right along, averaging just over 18 mph for the first 50 miles. By the time we got to SAG stop #6, the temperatures were really starting to rise. That aid station had some cold popsicles that were the best popsicles I've ever tasted! Yum. Leaving that stop at mile 67 to the SAG at mile 80 was a real struggle. Some of the most challenging hills of the ride thus far were in that stretch. The course ran through the middle of cornfields with very little shade.

Sadly, I do feel that I've acclimated much better this year to the heat than I was last year...but then the bar has been raised on the temperature highs! Just can't win. Again, if Louisville is anywhere near this hot...

Looks like the temps will be in upper 80's, low 90's next week. Sweet relief!