So... I guess I should have trained! I competed in the 2009 Tour of the Tucson Mountains in Marana today. Until today, the longest ride I had even completed was 50 miles; I was concerned that I would have a hard time completing the course. I was also pretty worried that I would make a mistake that would cause injury to myself or another rider. The beginning was crazy - I had a very hard time finding parking, and that only added to my stress level.
It was a 73 mile ride (despite what the above map claims) that I finished in 4 hours, 34 minutes and 58 seconds. In order to earn a Silver medallion, I would have had to finish about 4 minutes earlier. I was at a strong enough pace to make time until my rear tire blew out on me while turning at Ajo Way. Thankfully, the fine men and women who run the Bike Patrol were not too far behind. A nice gentleman replaced my tube and got me on my way, but the event added more than 20 minutes to my time. Bad luck.
I was pleased that Kerri (who felt ill this entire weekend) and my dad were at the finish line to cheer me on. I was also really inspired by countless friends and family who encouraged me as well, like my mom, brother Rick, Steph, Tina and Cindy "The Hammer" Sanchez. Also there was Mr. David Herring, our friend and former High School teacher who insists I call him by his first name. I believe I am yet to do so, because it kind of seems disrespectful to him. I'm getting there.
In any event, it was a really fun ride up until the tire malfunction, and I plan to do it again next year. Hopefully I'll be ready in time for the 110-mile El Tour de Tucson in November! I think I'll train this time.
PS: MapMyFitness claims that the ride should have burned about 3000 calories or so. Here's to a good weigh-in tomorrow!
On Sunday I participated in the 50 kilometer leg of the Tour de Cure 2009 for the American Diabetes Association. I had been sick all week prior with some bronchial problem, so I was worried about being able to finish. The ride was no longer than those that I have routinely done recently, but I had a hard time breathing. Fortunately, I was able to power through it and get it handled. My father took the following photos...
My number:
Before the race:
After the ride, coughing up a lung. Kerri looks on in pity.
My lungs were on fire. For some reason, they felt really, really tight.
Once I felt better, I spoke briefly with Mayor Bob Walkup of Tucson and Mayor Lynne Skelton of Sahuarita:
I was glad that I took part. I plan on doing this race again next year, and hopefully many more this year.
I have gone ahead and registered for Tour de Cure 2009, and have already met the minimum fundraising goal of $150 thanks to the following people:
- Mom and Dad
- Megan Mundle and Kyle Harvey
- Carla Ramos
- Alicia Cartwright
- Michelle Baker
- Matt Ramsze
- Stephanie Koch
But I still want to raise more for this worthy cause. If you are able, please pass this along to your friends and co-workers. I would appreciate all the help we can get.
http://main.diabetes.org/goto/jeffry
I plan on participating in this year' Tour de Cure for the American Diabetes Association. I will be taking part in the 50km event on March 8th. I need either sponsors or teammates, and all participants must raise at least $150 in order to ride. Who's in?