I had to get a ride in today for two main reasons: 1.) Zap the zero on my training log. 2.) Weigh-in for the DM Challenge is tomorrow morning. Even though it was 93 degrees and windy, I set off for my ride determined to complete my go-to route.

The ride went surprising well. I was maintaining a decent pace and the wind wasn't too big of a factor. Halfway through the ride, I caught up to two other cyclists. I told myself not to try and keep up with them (they were both fit looking Cat. 2 (or higher) racers), but the male ego/testosterone rush was too strong. Hangin' with them on the flats was no problem, but when the road pointed up I was dropped like a bad habit. To compound the issue, I spent so much (too much) energy attempting to hang with them that I was spent for the rest of my ride. Hopefully one of these days I'll learn my lesson... but probably not.

I got home completely drenched. I was a bit dehydrated, too. I brought plenty of water, but made the mistake of not bringing my insulated bottles so the water was nearly too hot to drink. Hopefully, I won't do that again... but I probably will.