One of my goals this year was to be better at time trials. This is a race against yourself essentially. Over a set course, how fast can you complete it in. A lot of variables come into play. The bike setup and body position where you (and this is subjectively specific) can maintain the the greatest power while attaining the best aerodynamic position. Then all racers times are scored against each other.
This is a really mind f$&@ type competition. You want to go to the edge of your body crumpling under the load. If you go higher, you lose power towards the end. If you go lower you are wasting speed that will get you a faster time.
It just you against you. No riding partners, no drafting. When I do these races, I feel like I'm in a bubble, observing myself. It hurts, it's uncomfortable, it's awakening. There is a distant voice that at times says, the pain can stop, all you have to do is stop pedaling. But then that is squashed with the resolve that I have not finished what I started.
This mirrors life. I'll say I want to do something and then when it starts, sometimes it's hard work and uncomfortable. But if I want what I was after, then this is the path, some pain, but then so much more at the end through the other side.
This day I nailed it, power and pacing is right where it is supposed to be for this time of year. This is exactly how I wanted to start the racing year. Great markers of power that will help me predict the fitness for the years racing. February is a busy opening month, two races down and two to go.
