Pedal Faster – It’s that time of year

For the first time, I made it my mission to experience Hotter’N Hell. First, I went to the consumer show, similar to an expo but cyclists-centered. Obviously. The vendors were very nice and there were a lot of giveaways! Mini had quite the hail when we finally exited.

Then, we went to the Crit races downtown on Friday night. I had to research it some, but a crit race is short for Criterium. Basically, as it was explained to me, cyclists travel in a pack, doing over 25mph down a stretch of road and 4 corners. Nascar on 2 wheels, they said. It was awesome!

Despite having to get up at 0400 on Saturday, I enjoyed the pre-event events! Saturday was my usual – direct, lead, and try to stay hydrated myself. I understand how some get irritated when Hotter’N Hell season comes around: the road closures, the cyclists taking up every lane, the magnitude of 8,000 additional people at restaurants, venues, and just general traffic. However, as someone who has run 10 half marathons, the work that goes into making these events possible, and making the racers/runners/cyclists feel loved, is unfathomable. I truly appreciate the behind-the-scenes, 363 days of the year dedication to making this 44th annual Hotter’N Hell weekend what it is.

_____________________

I ask you –

As I always ask – is there any cycling race you really love?

(The post Pedal Faster – It’s that time of year first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Re-Post!! Running + Cycling Stuff

From 3 June 2024 – as I’m traveling today and didn’t properly plan for a post, please enjoy this re-post until I return!

I’ve been running. Yes, it hurts. I keep forgetting about that part, until I do it.

On the bright side, Garmin says I’m 40% acclimated to the heat, which I know is definitely not true. Probably more like 14%. Nonetheless, it’s rained so often in the past 2 months I haven’t been out in the heat thus far. Only recently have I attempted to navigate the daily rain showers to make a conscious effort to go outside.

Perhaps I’ve forgotten to mention I’ve been sort of training for a mini triathlon. The sort of part refers to a general, well complete, lack of swim training due to a complete lack of available swimming locations. Unless you count the consistent daily rainfall and the fact the installation pools have only (until last weekend) been open on the weekends. Nonetheless, I can swim, so 250-something meters shouldn’t be too hard, right? Meh.

Working back up to a 20 mile week!

I’m genuinely excited to participate as I’ve never done anything like this before. Typically, I’m a single-plane type of athlete, unless volleyball counts as dual-plane? Relatedly, fast four volleyball has begun and I intend to join this week. More to come.

P.S. Someone should remind me about this run next year: Freihofer’s Run for Women 5k. The check in gift is a box of cookies and a loaf of bread!

_________________

I ask you –

How has your weather been?

Have you ever entered a triathlon? To be clear, this is a mini triathlon so definitely less intensive.

Tell me about a sport you’ve always wanted to attempt!

(The post Running + Cycling Stuff first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Hom(ies)

Disclaimer: I’m fine being a homebody. It’s where I’m comfortable. It has my favorite coffee. My favorite people. It’s mine. On occasion, however, I’m forced (mostly willingly) to go out and do things.

Like these things –

Granted, they were fun people so it wasn’t a hardship. Loved making new friends, putting faces to names, and fighting the good fight.

Followed by really really really hot things –

There’s no words for how hot it was. Maybe even Hotter ‘n Hell. A week in San Antonio working on a handbook followed by a mad dash home to lead the yearly rest stop. Definitely missing my wingwoman. It was a whirlwind – and it’s not over yet! Back to San Antonio today!

_________________

I ask you –

Are you a homebody?

How far have you ever ridden a bike?

Tell me what you have going on this week!

(The post Hom(ies) first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)

Running + Cycling Stuff

I’ve been running. Yes, it hurts. I keep forgetting about that part, until I do it.

Working back up to a 20 mile week!

P.S. Someone should remind me about this run next year: Freihofer’s Run for Women 5k. The check in gift is a box of cookies and a loaf of bread!

_________________

I ask you –

How has your weather been?

Have you ever entered a triathlon? To be clear, this is a mini triathlon so definitely less intensive.

Tell me about a sport you’ve always wanted to attempt!

(The post Running + Cycling Stuff first appeared here at Running on Fumes.)