Leah, the short answer is a resounding YES! If you are going to do group rides you (and everyone else) will get in over your head. It’s very easy to exert too much & you are done, especially if it is not a “no drop” ride. It’s worth mentioning that crashes are not infrequent on these speedier group
First, congratulations for completing a very tough ride! Second, it's
possible that what's nearly impossible today can be normal tomorrow once
you adapt with the strategies (as you did for gearing/pacing etc.) and
mental knowledge that you have done it and are doing it better the next
time around.
Toshi, I so agree! I like to ride tough rides to challenge myself and
increase fitness. I don’t have to win; I just want to be stronger than I
was….well, and not to slow the group down. I double agree with you that I
will finish a hard ride and vow never to do it again and then do it again.
Goo
