Hammer Time

After DNFing just a few minutes into Saturday’s race, I was still feeling the need to hammer today. So I got out and pounded out some lung searing hill repeats. The intervals were done on a climb that lasted about half a mile and gained around 300 feet. The first section of the climb I forced myself to stay seated and smash a big gear. The second part was steeper, and I stood as needed on that segment. The pain was intense, but it felt great after the frusterating DNF. After an hour of the intervals I spun it out for 2 more hours. Total time on the day was 3 hours and 40 miles. The temps were in the high 60s, and the sun was shining bright. Easily one of the best days of the year so far.

Spring is in full force. At least today it is. Tomorrow snow is supposed to return. However, despite that, people were still enjoying the spring weather. There were people waiting to tee-off at the golf course, there were roller bladers on the canyon rail trail and I saw many other cyclists, including my Mad Dog teamate Adam Gurtler who I joined up with for about 1.5 hours.

The legs felt nice and light during the repeats, and they kept that good feeling through the rest of the ride. Tomorrow I will get out on a recovery spin, then Wednesday the plan is to hit it hard again, followed by a Thursday night spin class. Fri/Sat family is in town for a wedding. So no weekend riding this week.

I recently learned that “Share the Road” signs will be installed on the stretch of highway where Bill Corliss was killed. This is a step in the right direction, but more needs to be done about the quality of roads in Utah. Many roads that were once considered back roads are now major thoroughfares. WIth new communities growing in these areas the traffic has become overwhelming. Many roads that were once cycling friendly are now dangerous. Roads need to be wider, smoother and cleaner. Utah County is growing faster than many cities can keep up with. A lot of people, some who knew Bill, others who didn’t, are stepping up efforts to improve the state of many popular cycling routes in Utah. More efforts of this type need to happen. More people who make decisions about where UDOT money is spent need to know the importance of building/rebuilding roads with wide shoulders. Not just for cyclists, but for the overall safety of traveling on them. I have always been aware of some of the efforts to improve the safety and quality of road cycling in Utah. But Bill’s death was something that brought it all into sharp focus and horrifying reality. When you are on your bike, ride smart, and ride safe. When you are in your car drive smart, and drive safe.

Allright, it is late. Keep the rubber side down.