DNF

Yes again on my second try to complete a Century I got another DNF as my result. I enjoyed the ride and it was pretty tough and hot. Most of the climbing was done in the East Country Mountains and it was about 90 out there. I felt like I was struggling, but when I looked back at my splits and time on my garmin I was actually doing ok.

I made a huge rookie mistake and wore a new pair of gloves. I had bought them a few months ago and figured the new fresh padding would be a benefit on this long ride.

DON'T EVER WEAR OR EAT ANYTHING NEW ON A CENTURY.

After about 30 miles my hand really started hurting, I could feel a blister developing. It hurt to grab the handlebar. Around mile 45 it was real bad. I took off the glove then, which helped, but it still hurt. At the rest stop at mile 59 I had pretty much decided to call it a day as to not agrevate the blister. I have another century in 2 weeks in Solvang, which is more important of the 2 to finish since I could do the Granfondo anyday myself since it's in my backyard.

I knew not to do anything new on a ride, I've heard this from other people, but the gloves were the same as my current gloves, so I figured it would be ok.... wrong...

Anyway I did go 77 miles, burned 5800 calories and lost about 5 pounds, and climbed 5500 feet accorind to my Garmin. I also tweaked my back going up Fury Lane, a freaking steep climb after youv'e already gone about 76 miles. I went a lot harder than I normally would have, since I thought I was going to have Lotus pick me up on the park at the top of the hill... Again a rookie mistake.

Lesson learned (and I guess reinforced) and now to prep for the Solvang Century. I'm actually going up in there this week for work, so I may scout out a bit of the course. It really helps if you know what's coming to you can pace out your effort.