I just completed the metric century at the PPTC Historic Backroads century sponsored by the FDA. I really had a great time, it was a perfect day with great roads and lots of other cyclists to share it with. Overall I felt pretty good although my back was a bit sore from my crash a couple of weeks ago. I met another rider (Susanne) that was relatively new to the sport, but very enthusiastic. We finished the ride together and had to drag my husband along for the last 10 miles due to cramps. It was great to see so many other riders out on the roads--it is always fun to outnumber the cars! I am sure I gained some form from all the hills on the course. The trick will be to keep some fitness as we head into the winter months - you know how I already feel about the trainer! I hope that eveyone else out there had a great time and I look forward to seeing everyone out there next year!

I have had a great time for the last two weekends getting to know some of the local rides. Labor day weekend I was able to explore Loudoun County and a little bit of Damascus. Loudon was a bit more hilly than I was expecting, but the pace was reasonable so I could enjoy the 50 miles of scenery. I did not get to see as much of Damascus as I would have liked due to some poorly placed wet leaves about 10 miles into the ride. Unfortunately I crashed on a descent and destroyed my best pair of wheels. Luckily I and another unfortunate rider weren't hurt too badly, just a very sore back and a little road rash, but I am quite upset about the wheels.
My backup training wheels which are purposefully heavy, are great for training but not so great for riding a century when you are not in great shape. After a few days of rest I got on the trainer to loosen up a little. Riding a stationary trainer will really make you appreciate the outdoor rides even more. I can really only take an hour or so of sitting inside on the bike before boredom, or the end of a T.V. show forces me off. But it can be a good workout, so I guess it is worth the effort. This weekend was a little more low-key with a 30 mile jaunt on the W&OD trail and a 40 mile ride around Dulles Airport and all of the new development there. I have been surprised to see all of the new neighborhoods and shopping centers that have popped up since I last spent time here in the late 1990's. Given the short amount of time I have to prepare and the setbacks from the crash I am probably aiming for the metric century next weekend but I haven't ruled anything out yet. We will just have to see how the week goes!Dreaming of California sun!