Watching the race yesterday flipped some sort of switch. It’s so different watching in person vs on TV - I pick up even more when I can watch techniques in person. It fed into this ride today. I found myself spending a lot more time in more of an aero position, for starters. Every time I’d tuck in, my speed would go up an additional 2mph.

The ride overall felt a lot faster than it ended up being, but I think it’s also because I was consistently working at 80+ for my cadence, which is pretty spectacular for me, since I’ve been kind of a grinder up until now. I feel like I’m at the cusp of being able to generate more power (and therefore speed!!) at these higher cadences bc they are starting to feel so much more comfortable/natural. Today I was subconsciously seeking out those higher cadences with more gear with a grin as I watched my speed go UP instead of down!

I PR’d Graceham Rd. It’s the road where you taught me how to draft. (Always makes me think of you, especially.) Hit 25 mph going against a headwind, which in my book is pretty damn impressive. The most I’ve been able to do on that road up until now is 20 mph.

I also pedaled 90% of the downhills, which is typically where I am the biggest chicken:
“What if a squirrel runs out in front of me? Or a deer? Or a bird? What if there’s a hole I can’t see until I’m upon it? What if one of my tires blows out for no reason?” Etc etc etc.

Came upon a 8% downhill that I’ve done in the opposite direction several times. Could see all the way ahead of me. I approached it with a big grin, “SEND IT!” I thought. And I did. PEDALING. I hit 32 mph pedaling downhill, and maintained 27 mph pedaling after that over a series of rolling hills. I felt like a real cyclist. It was such a trip!

Overall, a really, really great ride where I made some major progress in my bike handling skills!

Thank you, again, for letting me come watch you in action! ♥️

(The 130 W doesn’t sound very impressive numbers-wise but it’s my old FTP!!!)