The older I get, the bigger the details I overlook. Heading back, however, I watched enviously as the smooth stream of cyclists headed north toward the next turnaround and beyond. I wondered what it would be like to speed down the narrow, twisting roads near Makapu'u, to see Mount Olomana emerge from the horizon on the long arc to Kailua. Unfortunately, my wondering didn't translate to any sort of real training during the year. I'd have to wait another year to explore the rest of the course.
Organizers always encourage riders to stay within their limits, go easy and enjoy the ride.
On the first leg of the ride, that's exactly what my friends and I did. Pacing, you have to love it. At the first turnaround, I still felt fresh, strong. A cup of Gatorade and a few cookies had me convinced that turning back would leave me antsy and unsatisfied the rest of the day. So, I said good-bye to my friends and set off along Kalaniana'ole Highway.