RTB Training Rides Have Kicked Off
WOW, WOW, WOW!!! That’s all I can say about our first Reach the Beach training ride on March 7. There were 37 riders who signed up, and 12 of those were non-PBC members. A fantastic opportunity to recruit new club members! Hope everyone who was there had as wonderful a time as I did getting to know our guests. Greg Patton and I had our work cut out trying to keep track of everyone. Of course, there were some faster riders who made their own group and rode ahead. Right off the bat, though, we had an unplanned detour due to road construction, but you know what? We assessed the situation, came up with a plan, and found a workaround! This wouldn’t have been possible without the amazing group’s help. Just another awesome reason to ride with a group. With 74 tires rolling down the road, we only had 2 flats, and I’m happy to say that everyone made it back safely. I call this a very successful day of riding.
The second RTB training ride on March 14 was just as successful. I love to see all the smiling faces. It sure helps with these longer rides. Then, our third Saturday out, we headed to Scotts Mills from Canby. This is one of my favorite routes in the series. We were on low-traffic country roads and got to see areas I hardly ever get to see. The weather was perfect. But I really truly enjoy all these training rides. Last weekend, March 28, for training ride #4, we went from Hillsboro to Telvet Coffee in Forest Grove. It was, once again, another perfect sunny day to enjoy some miles as well as great company. I’m really enjoying getting to meet new people as well as riders I don’t see regularly. ✎
As a reminder, as the rides get longer and the elevation gain increases, it’s a good idea to bring enough water or drink of choice (non-alcoholic of course, ha), electrolytes, and fuel for your engine (AKA, snacks). We have seen some nice days. I know it hasn’t been too terribly warm yet, but keep in mind even in cool weather our bodies will still use up our electrolytes – not just in hot weather. For example, I always put liquid electrolytes in my water bottles before every ride, and I carry electrolyte tablets with me so I can replenish on the go if I need to. My go-to is Hi-Lyte electrolyte tablets. I get mine from Amazon. For fuel, my go-to is Rx Bars and peanut butter crackers. This is what works for me. It took me a very long time (a lot of rides) to figure out what works, what doesn’t, and what I can eat while on the bike. So, now is the time to figure out what works for you and what doesn’t.
Oh, before I forget to mention, even though these rides are re-group, it’s always a good idea to download the map onto your bike computer or even with RWGPS app on your Smartphone. Then you’ll have it if, for instance, you would like to go ahead of the group, or if you’re late to the start (be sure to call/text to let me know). This way you are sure either to get back to the start safely or to catch up with the group.
As always, let’s be safe and most of all have fun! Hope to see you out on the road.
Michelle Kirsch, RTB Training Series Ride Leader