So it finally happened. Earlier this week I was able to attempt my goal of doing a century. After two days delay, because of the amount of rain in Champaign, I finally achieved my goad of riding a century post TKR.  My original plan was to ride on Tuesday but it rained all afternoon.  I should know because we drove over to take Ronni's mother to her eye appointment and it was rainy all afternoon.  Wednesday was the same with rain most of the afternoon.  In the meantime, I prepared my bike for the 100 miler.  Using a new cleaner/wax the bike was transformed into a prime riding machine.  New tires were applied and everything was ready to go.  Or so I thought.  Because I had not ridden for awhile I decided to do my routine on my trainer in the basement.  As I began, I was unable to shift gears.  I did everything to figure out what was going on but after awhile I knew I needed to take it to my local bike shop, Russell's Cycling and Fitness and have Joe Russell figure it out.  Fortunately as I entered the shop Joe was coming from his work area.  He immediately put it on a rack and determined the shifting cable had broken.  After about an hour it was repaired and I was ready to roll.  Now that's why I would recommend Russell's because buying a product is one thing but servicing it is just as important and Joe has always done an excellent job of servicing his customers.  All's well that ends well.

So last Thursday I embarked on my first century in two years.  To be honest, I had my doubts concerning by fitness to ride 100 miles.  But as it turned out it was easier than I thought it would be.  Planning on three stops instead of my regular two I did not follow that plan.  My first stop was to be in Bloomington.  LeRoy was to be my second but as I passed through town my energy level was good to I trekked on.  The weather was in the middle 60's and the wind was from the NW at about 10-15 mph.  Perfect conditions for my ride.  Stopping in Mahomet was my second stop and I used the Dairy Queen seating area for a well deserved rest.  The final 15 miles into Champaign was lengthened so I would crack the 100 mile barrier.  Actually the longer route was safer as there was a bike lane all the way to Larry's condo.  After completing the ride Larry, Ronni and I dined at a Bowling Alley....that's right a Bowling Alley.  Nothing to good for my people... Ha Ha.  So, I have accomplished my century goal an now I need to find another challenge,  When I do it shall be duly reported.....Stay tuned.

 

Today's birthday ride was an attempt to bike a mile for each year since my birth. Mission accomplished. At my age it is not an easy task. Seventy four and going strong.  Knee is holding up well but at times gets a little gingy.  Rode thirty five to Magnola the prior day so over the two days 110 miles.  Yesterday would have been perfect for my first century but other obligations prevented my from it. Wind was from the NW at a brisk 10-15 mph, the temperature just touched 80 degrees and the humidity was low.  A perfect day for a 100 mile trek but I settled for my age.  Next time it will be done.  I had my regular heart checkup today and all is well.  The doctor was so impressed that I now take no medications (knock on wood) and said to keep up the cycling as it appears to have real benefit.  Very encouraging so I guess I will continue that activity. On another note, even as often as I bike, I still need to remind myself to take a day off to recover.  Usually it's after 5 days but the weather has been so good lately I hate to not take advantage of it.  But I must do so and that's that.