100 degrees

My training rides start this weekend. And my commutes home will be tough as well.

Last summer I was able to ride in about 100 degree heat, but a few days it was 102. I could not drink enough and cool my core at 102. This summer I will use my camelback and load it up with ice--and keep my water bottles wrapped up in my backpack and clothes from work to keep them cold. Drinking warm Gatorade sucks--but you have to drink it or you’re dead. Of course I can stop and get ice and cold stuff, but I don’t want to stop.

After a few weeks, your body adapts--You have to pay attention because your mind will tell you everything is okay while your body shuts down.

There is something quite sublime riding in 102 degree heat, if I may say so. I'm sure I'll be able to tell you more about it, Gentle Reader, as I hit the road--and burn. Mainly, its the air--its hot—like breathing fire. And, as long as you keep moving, sweat just kind of goes along for the ride. When you stop at a light, or what ever, sweat starts to pour out of you.

Does that stop the Randonneur? Non, mes amis! Ils allons!

Au revoir!