Hell of a race!!!

Well today was an interesting race to say the least. The total distance was about 23 miles of mostly flat gravel with a few hills thrown in the mix. What was interesting was the 30 mph sustained winds out of the NW that caused the course to be hell on earth. The race started at the Amigos Bar and Grill in Fort Dodge and headed west out of town, Dante's first circle of hell. From there it turned north, second circle of hell. Followed that for about 2 miles then went back west, 3rd circle of hell. From there it was about 5-8 miles of west riding, then back north on a somewhat covered part of road but still a level of hell. The first great part of the race was when we turned back east and had a 30 mph tailwind. It was amazing spinning as fast as I could and then coasting for about a 1/4 to 1/2 a mile. That was so much fun doing on a single speed. The worst part of the race came after this tailwind section when we turned straight into the wind with no wind breaks for miles on the horizon and ended up doing a mile section at about 2-3 mph. It was the 4th through 7th circles of hell. From that point we were an hour in and then it was all tailwind back to the bar. Finished the 23 miles today in about 1:39. Not to back, pretty pleased with my effort. Definitely have a long way to go this year as I begin the heavier part of my race schedule. Looking forward to it. Now I have to get my stomach in check as I am having wrenching pain right now sitting on the couch. May have some pictures later. All that I have to say for now. OUT!