Mike Across America

Wow – its been over a month since RAAM. I must be having fun because time has been flying by. Physically I’m getting back to normal. I still have numbness in my middle toe on my left foot, but other then that no lingering effects. My training is going well.  I feel like I have been getting stronger in the last week or so, instead of just going through the motions. I’ve had some really good rides the last 7-10 days with some big rides (200+ miles this Thursday) planned in the next two weeks. Then I’ll taper for the GutCheck double crossing of the state (824 miles) August 11-15. I don’t have anything planned as far as races after that, which is good I think. My mind doesn’t have to subconsciously plan for anything else.

Mentally, RAAM still weighs on me. I know I need to “let it go” and I slowly am. But like any “lost” opportunity, its been hard. After all the planning, training, promotional work and then to walk away with a bit of an empty feeling -  hurts. I know – quit your crying and get on with things! We had a lot of fun doing all the preparation and the fund raising we did for our two charities was fantastic. The crew was great and everyone enjoyed the adventure as long as it lasted and we made many new friends and learned so much. Such is life – no guarantees. but do your best and don’t look back. Easier said then done.