An Inspiring Comeback(Attempt)

Hey guys,

So, I haven't blogged for a few days. But, I do have a very cool story to tell.

About a week ago, August 4th rolled around. That marked the one-month anniversary of my crash. So, as a crazy triathlete, I decided to try and honor it with a bike ride. A ride that would show people that recovery is possible and that you can do well even after a mammoth crash. So, I mapped out a 152 mile route to the beach. A lofty effort, but I was ready to take on the challenge. So, after planning and resting, I set out, early, at around 6:15AM on August 4th.

 

My route took me on mostly back roads, and they were not in great condition. However, I just had to grit my teeth and take all of the bumps and holes as they were, and just try not to wreck again. As a matter of fact, at about 50 miles, the road ended and started up again in about 150 feet. So, I turned into a cylocross rider for about a minute, carrying my bike through a field. Good times, me and the road. Anyway, I continued to ride. I was at about 75 miles when I ran completely out of hydration. I had been taking gels and drinking Gatorade, but as I grew more fatigued, I started to drink more, and run out much faster. So, at 75 miles, a magic gas station appeared. I ran inside, gulped down a bottle of water, and bought 5 more Gatorades. I refilled, then got back out there. It was very nice, just being out and about, experiencing new roads and the thrill of the ride. But, even so, I had not calculated nutrition correctly. I started to become very, very tired, and started running out of water once again. So, as I continued up the road, I crossed the threshold of the legendary century distance. I went through 100 miles averaging 21.5mph, very respectable for such a distance. So, I was happy, but only momentarily. As I continued, I started to get delirious, and got very dizzy, and weak. So, I pulled over, and got under a shaded tree. As I looked myself over, I saw that there was salt on my legs and some on my arms, a sure sign of severe dehydration. I was waiting by the side of the road when a man stopped his car and asked if I was alright. He called my mom, who was riding behind me in a car, and told her where I was, and she was able to pick me up. The salt rings all over me were intense, and I was surprised I had lasted through a century. I ended up making it 108 miles, the farthest I've ever been, straight up. So, all in all, a great learning experience, and, as another plus, I was able to spend the weekend with my girlfriend at the beach.

 

Also, great news! In 4 days, I go back to surgery to get my screws removed. It is almost time to be rid of these painful things!

 

Happy training guys!