Yesterday I rode both loops of the Daffodil Classic in Orting, WA. I rode with a group of friends on the 40 miler – we kept a fast pace, averaging 18-20 on the flats. My buddies all *cough* wimped out *cough* had prior commitments that afternoon, but I felt great and went on to the 62 miler after a short break. Below is a google earth screen shot showing the route:
I think the other guys made a good call skipping out on the 62 mile loop. While it was scenic, the roads were rough, there was considerably more climbing (though not as steep). It took me 5 hours to finish the second loop (twice the time for only 50% more distance). I went from averaging 19mph on the first to averaging 12.5mph on the second.
Aside from fatigue I didn’t have any real discomfort until mile 80 or so. At that point my back and neck started to bug. While it was exhausting I did get a fantastic descent down Cemetery Hill. I must have only pedaled 1 mile of the last 5. Pretty big rush going through winding turns at 40+mph…
By far the most difficult aspect of the ride was balancing nutrition without over eating and filling my stomach. I snacked continually while riding – I’d estimate about 300-400 calories per hour worth of fig bars, cashews, gel shots, and assorted fresh fruit.
Not sure how accurate it is, but my Garmin 305 says I burned 7994 calories. I’m not in pain today, but feel slightly dizzy and stiff.
edit: Here’s the elevation profile.
