The first of the season...

For the last three weeks I have been threatening to complete my first ride & swim of the year. Well, the wait is over, because that is exactly what I did today.

When I got up this morning, the wind was blowing. Which means that riding conditions are less than ideal. However, I had decided that I would ride to Udall today for my morning swim and a little wind (or a lot of wind) was not going to deter me.

It had been a while since I had ridden my bike the four miles to Udall, so I didn't recall how long it would take me. I gave myself 25 minutes, which it turned out was way too long. After arriving at Udall more than ten minutes earlier than I planned, I ended up riding around the neighborhood behind the park, while I waited for six o'clock.

As I entered the pool area, I decided that today's swim would be all about distance. So, it was into the water and straight to the task at hand.

2000 yrds - WarmUp/Swim
100 yrds - Kick

Total Yardage = 2100 yrds

So, no ladders. No intervals. No negative splits. All I did was get in and swim 2000 yrds. Like I said, distance day. Simple and sweet.

On the ride home, the wind was even more troublesome then it had been earlier. Especially coming up Catalina Highway. But, 18 minutes after I left Udall, I rolled into my driveway (the trip over took 12 minutes).

All told, I rode for 9.5 miles for a total of 46 minutes. Swam 2100 yrds in 50 minutes. And started my Friday in grand fashion.

Holy Headwind

Dan and Chris were unavailable to ride today. So, I decided to take this opportunity to make my first trip up the mountain in months. It's was so windy, it was ridiculous. The last 3 or 4 months have been the windiest I ever recall for Tucson.

During my ride, today's wind seems to be either blowing directly in my face, or blowing me toward the edge of the road. Neither of which is pleasant. It is also good to note, that this is my first ride up Mt. Lemmon since getting my shiny new Felt F55. I was hoping to notice a difference in weight when climbing. But, I think the wind has negated any advantage I had hoped to enjoy. I made it to mile post two and considered it a job well done.

Return ride was fine, although I leaned on my breaks a bit. Going fast, downhill, with wind blowing you all over the place can be a little unsettling.

Back home and all is well. Time for a good Sunday breakfast to start the day.