Time trial route, starting from home. Met up with Dave and John and started out. I had originally planned on keeping a modest pace, but John took off and was riding with a purpose. So I hung with him and traded leads until we got up to the turn, where I put a little distance on him. I waited by the light, and we rode together up to the top of the hill and waited there for Dave. Down the hill and up Espola Rd, where I kept it above 10 mph but didn't wreck myself to get a great time. We all gathered at the top of Espola Rd and rode together down Poway Rd, with me and John putting some separation on Dave at a couple of points. I tried to pull John up Sabre Springs Pkwy at a faster pace, but he couldn't hang on. Same thing on Ted Williams Pkwy, where I slowed down and waited until he caught up. Then I led out at a pace that he could keep up and ride in my draft. I repeated this pattern once we got through the light at Twin Peaks Rd, keeping a steady pace (my legs were getting tired) and leading out for John. We topped the rise by the hospital together and then rode together, fast, down to Rios Rd. I was really feeling it by this time. However, it was for a good cause, as John established a new PR of 55:05, 45 sec faster than his previous best. I finished in 53:10, with opportunity to drop my time by increasing my exertion at several places and riding on fresher legs.
Total mileage = 23.2 mi
Avg heartrate = 145 bpm
Total elevation gain = 820'
http://www.mapmyride.com/routes/view/4958719
