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Speed and endurance. I'm currently in training — sort of, anyway — for two upcoming events that could be characterized as polar opposites.
The first undertaking, which requires the need for speed, will be the Maine Senior Games on September 18 in Brunswick, Maine. I'm entered in the 20-kilometer (12.4-mile) road race, competing against all the participants, but striving for specific placement in the men's 70-74 age group.
The second happening, the one dealing with endurance, is just two Sundays later. It is the Cadillac Challenge, a century (100-mile) ride, with 6,000 to 7,000 feet of elevation gain over roads winding through Bar Harbor, Acadia National Park, and Mount Desert Island, here in Maine.
The Games involves a type of race that I've never done before, so I'm curious as to how I will perform. The course, on paved roads on a former military base, appears to be as flat as a pancake and is 2.1 miles in length. So six laps in total.
The 2021 competition occurred at the same venue. Just for reference, I tracked down the finishing times for those in my age category. The first-place cyclist completed the 20 kilometers in 36:19; second place, 40:21; third place, 43:33, and fourth place, 58:26.
Timing myself, over the same distance on a route near my house in Hallowell, the results were as follows: 47:21, 42:54, 38:39, 37:25, and 37:01. These simulations involved varying degrees of effort, which intensified with each attempt; a hillier terrain; no paceline, and brief hesitations for traffic checks. I plan on using my carbon-frame Trek Domane road bike. And I'm hoping to ride the actual course prior to the September event.
All in all, it should be fun and exciting. Who knows, I may even qualify for the 2023 National Senior Games in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.
Truth be told, I'm a little less stressed out over event number two — the Cadillac Challenge. After all, I have done 25 centuries — all of them after turning 49 years of age — so I kind of know the score when it comes to riding 100 miles. For the most part, the physical component is easier than the mental one. Although, Cadillac is by far the hardest of any I've ever done.
I feel kind of lucky just being able to participate, as race organizers are only allowing 100 cyclists to enter. It was publicized that more than 700 people wanted a spot in the annual contest.
Anyway, stay safe. I've got to get back to my training.
