On April 29th I finally graduated MSU with a BS in Aerospace Engineering. That's right, I'm officially a rocket scientist. This was an exciting steep for me, but a sad one at the same time. The next day I was packing up my apartment to move home. Yep, I'm a poor unemployed college grad living with mom and dad again.
I then spent the next few week trying to focus on finishing my training for Syllamo's Revenge 125k. The week before the race I did a pre-ride of the 25mile loop that we would ride twice during the race. During this ride I had several first: first time being completely lost on the mountain bike, first time seeing a black bear, first time seeing a beaver run down a trail, and my first time to run over a field rat. Then came the race, most mentally draining thing I have ever done, my body felt great all day but it mentally hurt. This race deserves a dedicated post.
The next few weeks brought no riding at all. I was focused on jumping through the hoops to join the Arkansas National Guard. That's right, I'm officially Specialist McCool (and a rocket scientist!). I'm going to basic on August 15, 2011, then AIT. My MOS will be 94D.
Once everything for the Guard calmed down I decided to start back riding. Went on a short ride out at Big Dam Bridge, Emerald Park and Burns park. This ride was ok, the worst part of it was not having riding gloves (lost one at Syllamo). Swung by one of the LBS to pick up some gloves and noticed that the Tour De Rock was the next weekend (tomorrow, 20110611). Ran Monday morning (I need to get in some running before basic) then registered for the Tour Monday night. Although the run destroyed my legs I decided to ride the ATV trial around my house Tuesday. Then Thursday I went out to Camp Robinson to get in some real mountain bike fun.
The legs are waking up nicely and I feel strong going into tomorrow. I've heard of people training for months for this tour (that's right, this is my first tour) but I'm just jumping in last minute to do it, is this a good thing to do? We will see.
I have more on my mind but will be updating again tomorrow night and some more next week. Stay tuned for more.
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| View from the top of Emerald Park |
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| More from Emerald Park |
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| And more |
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| And more |
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| Had to bail on the way down due to downed trees. |
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| Sounds like fun! |
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| View form bottom of Emerald Park |
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| Mud hole in ATV trail |
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| View form top of ATV "climb" |
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| Same spot, other view |
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| Can't seam to start a ride when its below 90*. |
