I survived my second metric century (100 km, 64 mi.). This ride was the Hancock Horizontal Hundred on Sunday, Sept. 12 sponsored by the Hancock Handlebars of Findlay, Ohio. I had actually intended to attempt the full 100 miles, but as luck would have it one of the handbell choirs I direct started rehearsal that day and I wouldn't make it back in time if I did the 100.
This ride was much more well attended than the one in Bucyrus. According to a friend of mine, Tricia Green, who is a member of the Handlebars there were about 750 riders. Pre-registration was held at the High School Saturday evening. A number of vendors had displays and I was very good. I only spent about $15 on an accessory holder for my touring bike.
Sunday morning started out a bit on the chilly side, about 58 degrees, but there was very little wind and it didn't take long to warm up. I rode by myself this time and had decided that I would just take it easy and not worry about time or average speed. Of course once I got going I couldn't help but to watch what I was averaging and try my best to keep it up.
The ride took us south of Findlay to Bluffton, then around Jenera and through Arlington. From Arlington the route I was on then came back into Findlay. Those riding the 100 miles went further east into Carey then back around to Findlay. The route was mostly flat with just a few small hills which was nice for someone of my ability and experience.
I kept up a pretty comfortable and even pace through most of the ride. At about 35 or 40 miles, though I started to really zone out for a while and suddenly decided to go off-roading for a couple minutes. I hit the gravel and grass just off the edge of the road and lost control. I was holding my water bottle at the time so I didn't have a good grip on the handlebars. I didn't completely wipe out though. I managed to hop off the bike and keep it from flying away. I scratched up my left brake handle and mangled up the deraileur cable a bit, but nothing serious.
I'm not completely sure, but I don't think it ever got up to 80 degrees. If it did, then it wasn't much over. All in all it was a pretty comfortable ride with lots of nice scenery. This time my butt started to give out before my legs. I don't know if that was because I was riding my road bike instead of my touring bike or if it's because my legs are getting stronger. I'm sure it's probably a combination of both. I averaged 14.5 mph and just about 4.5 hours on the bike.
Click here to see more pictures from the ride.
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