Hi Everyone
It’s been over a month now since 2007 Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge and I am sure there are many ladies who rode it and are still feeling so proud of how well they did.
My experience this year was awesome as it was my second time riding this event and I didn’t have any of the nerves that I suffered from last year. I am really sure though that they have added more hills as I don’t recall it being anywhere near as hilly the last time!
A few weeks leading up to Taupo, I seemed to be struggling a bit with my riding and didn’t think I would do very well this year. I had been visiting my physio (who sticks needles in my butt to help with sore muscles), and he got me firing on all cylinders again.
On Friday, the day before Taupo, I got my new SubRosaPro and decided to ride it, much to the worry of most of the people I ride with! The bike rode like a dream and felt fantastic.
I had an awesome ride finishing at 4.22min, which I was really pleased with. I didn’t have a computer on my bike so had no idea of time or distance throughout most of the ride until right near the end. I’m already looking forward to next year, as the Taupo ride has just an amazing atmosphere with so many people pumped and out to do their best. That is all it’s about!
A couple of weeks later I was back in Taupo doing the cycle leg of the ½ Ironman in a women’s team. We had a blast but I must say, I found the ride, which is a 90km time trial, really hard and quite lonely. I am such a chatterbox when I ride and when you cannot draft you have to try and make conversation as you are cycling past or being passed! Not that easy. Most people looked at me as though I was a nutter!
The funny thing now is, though I don’t think a ½ or full ironman is my thing, the triathlon looks like it may be quite fun to try. I might have to take the running shoes away at Christmas time too…
Anyway, our team called SheBeest, came third in the women’s team category so that was a bit of a hoot!
I’ve got a few races coming up early in the New Year so need to keep on my bike over the holidays. Apart from staying on top of the fitness, it means I can burn off all the food I eat!!
Have a wonderful and safe Christmas. Enjoy the superb weather we are having and make the most of family babysitters!
Until next year…
Suz