More Than I Can Chew

It'll come as no big surprise to any of you but I feel like I'm behind the 8-ball this year.  To be honest, I (and probably most other working stiffs) do every year but this year I have semi-measureable proof.  The Paris Roubaix race usually marks my first serious group road ride.  One that I typically ride 30-ish miles to, do the 30 mile group ride and then slink home.  Years past I've felt comfortable doing some version of this ride.  This year the idea never even entered my mind.  Ruh, roh.

Well, its time to either shit or get off the pot.  If something doesn't happen soon, the early season will be lost so I've gone and done something stupid.  Stupid like planning to attend the state's fastest group road ride tonight.  Here's the description:

This is the fastest large group road ride in the state of Maine.  This is not a beginner event (there are no waits). All are welcome to attend. The ride is 48.5 miles and covers the bigger hill climbs in Southern Maine. The race pace* (23-27mph+) is close to a Cat III race. Neutral start until Libby’s Ice Cream shop.  Several sprints on this route include town line sprints, top of climb sprints and final Rt. 88 sprint. It is a very fun ride and great for training. The pack is usually 30-40 riders large. Starts the first Tuesday of April through the last Tuesday in August – every week leaving at 5:30 from Cyclemania. Expect a 3-hour ride. ALL TRAFFIC LAWS OBEYED.

Click HERE for the route map.

*Race Pace: This refers to hard efforts for the fittest riders with appropriate bike skills.  Riders are expected to be fully self-sufficient. If you flat, get dropped, or get lost then tough.  This is the level of effort to expect if you join the race team members on a team ride. (Expect no less than a Cat 3 ride level.)

Sounds like fun. Except for the fast pace, hills and three hour ride ride time.  All things that I haven't done yet this season.  Check in tomorrow to see if I survived...