El Tour de Tucson is over.
After just a bit over seven hours, I finished the 108 miles. I was hoping for 6.5 hours or less, and was making a great pace to do it. But at around 75 miles, I hit the wall. Headwind and slight incline slowed me down immensly. I was so tired. My neck and back were aching. But the whole time, I thought it was fun anyway.
Downhills were fun (33.6 mph elbow to elbow with a huge pack of cyclists). Scarry for a guy who has only ridden alone. But I got the hang of it.
It was amazing how many spectators/supporters there were just hanging out on the roads cheering. That really helped, especially on the hills.
I had to pee really badly for the first 60 miles or so. Kept thinking "Okay, I'll stop at mile 20, no... 30, no....40.." I didn't stop till 60 or 70 miles. My bladder was gonna explode, so I used the portajohn (big mistake, I had to wait 5 minutes. I shoulda just used the bushes). I took off and kept going.
My camelback (I froze it), did not thaw out until the 80th mile or so. I only had 2 bottles during that whole time, so when the camel back finally was drinkable, it was like heaven.
Anyway, It was really fun. THanks for everyone's help and tips.
PS,
I'm sore.