Another 2009 Ironman Rider Story

Dear Ironman

I just went on your site now and did not realize that I accomplished that much. It was wet, cold and windy. But a blast! I rode my Bianchi Castro Valley, Orange! I was so excited for this years ride, my second. It turned out to be just as exciting as I had hoped.

I bike all winter long, and am not afraid of the cold. The wet is another story. I was getting nervous about riding in rain. Turns out there was not much to fear. Once I was saturated it was a question of keeping my glasses somewhat useful.

The route was nice. There were some good hills and the road was much smoother than last year. I tossed out my bike computer last winter and so had only my watch to guide me on time. I figured the organizers knew that we rode 100 Miles. It took me 45 minutes longer than my longest century to date. Must have been all that water on my cloths.

Starting the ride was pleasant. Naturally I was over dressed. So I shed some of my gear and was enjoying a cool but dry ride. That is when the rain hit. Somewhere out of Jordan I believe. Just my kit and leg warmers until I stopped again. I was glad I had dry cloths in my back pack. Opps... they were soaked too. Next best thing was to put on my wet gear and get some body warmth.

I have to say I was a bit un social on the ride. No opportunity to chat more than to say how you doing? I was impressed the people who did the ride. They are a hardy bunch. Me, not a sniffle nor a sore anything. I think the cold was just what the doctor ordered.

I would like to thank the volunteers at the rest stops. They are the greatest people in the World. The little kids moping the wet floors that I am sure I contributed to. Only one complaint... any chance of having water proof TP next year? I drank coffee.. the other gator aid. It warmed me right up and with a smile and encouraging word from the EMT's I was off and riding again. I also was so proud of the people who rode in spite of the weather.

Thanks Ironman. Let's do this again next year. And to those who didn't ride... Buck up you have another chance to soak your shorts, it saves on Chamios cream.

Best

Tom