Pecking Order Aside, I Must Pass Cyclist on Phone

I joined the Raiders this morning, a fast group of cyclists who quickly make you regret your lack of nutrition discipline. Don't get me wrong, although competitive they are super friendly. But this is the group that rolls effortlessly up hills while striking up conversations. To know them, to ride with them, is my connection into a higher level of fitness and speed. Which basically means I do my best to respond to "what did you do with the kids this weekend" between gasping breaths as we climb to the bridge.

I actually lead the way to the bridge this morning but it was by mistake. I know my spot on the pecking order, and even though I'm not afraid to race them up Conzelman, today was not that day. It's just I was odd man out and a car was back, so I quickly spun ahead to the front of the group. 

As a result I broke the group in two, those following me, and those trying to keep up. It was however short lived as 5 of the members decided it was their turn and quickly passed as we hit the last 100  yards. Fine by me, again I was happy just to lead for a bit. 

After the Raiders all regrouped I split off to get some "Mo Miles" in. A nice relaxing spin to Ocean Beach. The elevation sneaks up on you and punishes you if you are not in shape. So as I strolled off at a less than Raider pace I was immediately passed just past the toll plaza.

Sigh, by the looks of Mr. Cervelo I knew immediately which route he was taking. I now had someone to follow to Ocean Beach. Sensing he had company, he quickened his pace as did I.

I kept my distance mind you, not tailing him for any benefit. Rather, he was motivation just to get off my arse and speed up. From the sky we likely looked like a slinky as whenever I closed on a hill he would extend away over the other side. That is, until after the beach he sat up slowing down just a little...to talk on the phone. Ever so relaxed and talking I couldn't help but over hear the conversation. So what to do? 

I passed him of course, knowing full well that as soon as got off the phone he would pass me back. Which, he did. But I couldn't just sit up and  listen to his conversation because I was tired. If only I were 5 lbs lighter, or if he had a backpack too, or if I had an ounce of Raider nutrition discipline I'd be long gone. But this world is not my reality. Not today anyways. 

Pleased with my morning roll I loaded my stats to the cloud. Surprisingly, I quickly learned my 26 mile morning adventure earned me a ridiculous 20 cups on Strava. Cups are rewards you get for beating your previous times when you were, well younger. And any time I find I'm faster than my younger self than I'm a happy man.

So thanks Raiders, thanks Mr. Cervelo, I raise my Cups to you.