With July all but gone I am starting to feel unprepared for the big events coming up in the world of cycling.  Ann and I will do the 111 mile Ulcer Century on August 9th.  I am feeling rather comfortable that we will both be ready. But I am not so confident on my current condition for the Everst Challenge on September 20/21 and the Furnace Creek 508 two weeks later. I don’t know anyone who has sucessfully completed the Everest Challenge and the Furnace Creek 508 back to back like I hope to.  I guess it is something about turning 60 earlier this year that drives me to prove to myself I am not yet ready for the rocking chair.

I decided to go to my training log and create a training plan to make sure I am getting ready.  It helps me to compare where I am with where I was last year at the same time and how I am doing against my training program.  These charts show I am on track with total miles but am falling a bit short on climbing.  The one area I need to really focus on is getting my weight down and want to lose 5 lbs. in the next 5 weeks.  Click the charts to view enlarged.

I did get in a good ride on Saturday and did some hill repeats today up Thomas Grade,  It will be difficult getting in enough climbing due to travel schedules.  That means an accelerated training when I get the opportunity.  I feel the key is to make sure I am getting the right base level and then peak at the right time.  I followed that approach for the Devil Mountain Double last April and it paid off.

See here for all the charts on my training for the 508.

Categories: Everest Challenge, Furnace Creek 508
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