One of my pre-season goals this year was to complete two "centuries" prior to my first HIM Triathlon which takes place on July 10th in Muncie, Indiana. (Muncie Endurathon). I completed my very first century solo on May 16th, 2010. It was an objective I had been eager to accomplish ever since I started cycling a little over two years earlier. I was fortunate that the weather was very favorable during that first 100 mile ride as the temperature hovered around the mid 70's and the skies were overcast. The following week on May 23rd I was fortunate enough to have two good friends and fellow triathletes join me for "Century Number Two". Our ride began at 8am and as we headed north towards Elberfeld, Indiana it was apparent that hydration would be a factor. Temperatures were forecast to approach 90 degrees with high humidity and a very high UV Index. This would turn out to be the hottest day of the year so far. After all, what would southwestern Indiana be if we didn't have high heat and high humidity! The saving grace for this ride was being able to share the experience with friends. Pictured below are Cody Riley (left) and Billy Cole (right) standing in front of a gas station on North Burkhardt having just replenished their water supply. I'm the one behind the camera (or iPhone in this case). Both Cody and Billy are phenomenal cyclist and triathletes. Additionally, Cody and Billy both have mountain biking backgrounds and both have ties to North Carolina. Being able to share this ride with them was very enjoyable.I feel honored to get the opportunity to train with them on occasion. (Or for that matter - try to keep up with them) As the day would have it, the last 15 or so miles of this century proved to be very challenging for me as heat and dehydration were becoming a factor. I'm sure fatigue from the 3 previous weeks of training were playing a part also. I accomplished the 100 mile ride but I also gained some respect for how much the heat can impact your performance. Considering that my two primary races this season are Half-Ironmans I will certainly be doing my best to both plan for and train for hot & humid race days. Here is my Beginner Triathlete training log entry for this ride. Thanks again to Cody & Billy for sharing this ride with me!