Augusta 200 K Brevet--01/01/2011

On New Years Day I completed the first of 4 rides I need to qualify for Paris-Brest-Paris in August. Drove 2 1/2 hours to Augusta New Years Eve afternoon/evening so I could get decent night's sleep the night before the actual ride. Went to bed at 9:30 but didn't fall asleep until after 1:00 am. So much for driving over early.



24 cyclists started the ride at 7:30. I was on my single speed (47x20) and wondered if I should be using a larger gear. First 40 miles were uneventful as we enjoyed sun and mild temps in the 55--65 degree range. Then we headed into a headwind which stayed in our face until Louisville (mile 81). Leaving Louisville I tried to stay with 3 other cyclists but was at disadvantage with single speed. The rain came about 3:45 as I was at mile 95. I was glad to have a rain jacket which kept my core dry and warm as temps dropped.

I rolled into the finish at 5:48 for a total time of 10:18. Actual time on bike was 9:33. I had to stop lots of times on roadside for quick nature breaks which at least meant I was well hydrated. About 10 riders finished ahead of me 9 after me ad the rest DNFed.