I went back up to Mentone for training camp to ride my bike, and more importantly to get away from stressors in my environment. Being on top of a mountain and sleeping in a little cabin surrounded by gusty winds is very relaxing. I couldn't stay the whole weekend because I have a midterm on derivatives on Monday.

Yesterday's ride was 67 miles with two climbs of the mountain, the first on a dirt road (maybe 3-4 miles of uphill). Riding a road bike on a dirt road sucks. There is the constant fear of slipping on the skinny tires and crashing down to the ground, and there is the inability to make the bike move efficiently. I suppose this will train me for riding on uneven road surfaces. On the second climb (at around 62 miles) I wanted to launch an attack to see how I would do in a hilly road race if I did such a thing. I waited until about halfway up and then let 'er rip. It is interesting how I find long climbs to be such enjoyment even if I am exhausted and sore. Those discomforts melt away when I am climbing.

I haven't lost any strength during my five days off the bike. My saddle problems continue to hamper continuity in bike fit and have impeded the ability to get settled into the feeling of riding a machine that fits so well that you don't notice it as a separate entity.

The people on my team are so very generous and friendly, and I consider my inclusion to be a blessing.

As my neck continues to improve (and if I can find a decent saddle soon), race season will commence.

Off to study; I am literally counting down the days to December 15, 2007 when this graduate school hell is over with.