I was planning on going to SS, but the weather did not permit. I had to decide where to go when I got out. I wore arms, knees, headcap and a thick base layer. I shoved a sheet of newspaper in my jersey for good measure. As I was making my way up OTR, I was debating on SS via Pellisier, or to WS. I decided on the Tour de Teh (R) ride. So, I skipped the SS loop. The wind was from the South East. I made it to the summit of OTR in good average time. The Banducci Wall had some traffic mitigation, so I was watching my 6. I kept the tempo moderate. After making it to the summit, I pulled over to recover and assess my plan. I also fed a Clif Bar. I made it there it there in good average time.
The wind picked up, so no chance of going all the way to SS. So, I decided to do the abridged ride. Descending off mountain proved to be a bit dangerous. I was having to feather the brakes the entire way down. The cross wind was what made it dangerous. Nevertheless, I made it to the base without incident. The return through the farm fields was horrible. Either I was going through a cross wind or head wind. So, it was a game of patience. I put it in my easy gear and churned away. After reaching the last climb, I was feeling a bit better in the morale. I kept the tempo steady. My right knee was a bit sore towards the end of the climb, but did not detract from my progress. I kept the tempo going over the top. I recovered on the false flat as best I could. Route 202 had some traffic mitigation, but not too bad. The OTR descent was mostly relaxed and enjoyable. I pushed over Mariposa and then shut it down when I reached the top of Weston. Concentration was good all things considered. Some lapses, but not so bad. The trek through the farmlands proved to be the most difficult segment. I was struggling to keep the morale on the positive side. I kept it together. It was mostly patience and staying calm that got me through it. Balance and form was good. Nutrition was good. I fed a Clif Bar at the summit of Banducci. I drank most of my sport drink and some water. Ailments, some hand numbness while out of the saddle. Modest right knee soreness towards the last third of the ride. Gear worked flawless. I noticed that if I keep the brakes pressed while it's squealing causes it to go away. As if the contaminants are scrubbed. Other notes, no cyclists today. A friendly motorist gave me a wave.