First time in over 25 that I've ridden this far, my maximum distance recently has been a 40km commute, so I was a bit hesitant about the distance. Set off in perfect conditions, nice and sunny, not much wind, and took it really easy for the first 10km.
Was a nasty climb about 15km in that although not that long, pushed me to my limit - I really really need to work on my leg strength!!!
Then all of a sudden we were heading over the river at Freo and turning round to come back. A bit of a headwind picked up on the way back and the roads were a bit of a mix of back roads until we hit the freeway and then it was plain sailing.
Loved every minute of it, first time I've ridden in big groups before and didn't find it scary at all, apart from one close call when I got squeezed from both sides at a left-turn.
Downed one gel before the start, then had another at halfway, and drank 1 bottle of water and 1 bottle of Endura. Perfect nutrtion for me.
Only real issue was after 35km, my saddle got rather uncomfortable. Not sure if it's the saddle itself or just the fact that I'm not that used to riding 35km+. More HTFU I reckon :)
Even had plenty of strength left to really push the last 5km which really surprised me! 38km/h for the final 2km, hurrah for me!
Oh, the volunteers were awesome, cheering everybody as they went past, really gave a great atmosphere to the ride.
Even had plently of

Wish I'd realised that I could do the distance - nutrition certainly helped here - and pushed it harder to start with.

Found a friend, had a chat, then drove home for a nice bath. No stiff legs so another sign that I coped well, and should have pushed more.


Confidence in the distance and my legs.


Would love to have the legs next year to do the 106.......... or maybe a far quicker 53 !