50 k's

I dragged my ass out of bed at quarter to 6 yesterday morning so I could get in an early ride before the heat of the day set in (the temperature reached a maximum of 43.7 degrees C). There was also a fairly consistent wind of about 25 km/h coming from the east. My aim was to string 2 of my normal rides together, to make a 50 km loop. I first rode West past Lake Monger, then Lake Herdsman, then down Hale Road to the coast. I then turned South and rode past City Beach to Swanbourne, then I turned East (yes into the wind unfortunately) then rode past Claremont Showgrounds, Subiaco and Northbridge, until I got to Burswood. I then turned back West to ride along the South Perth foreshore to the Narrows Bridge, then finally turned North to head back home, via Parliament House. All up, about 2.5 hours in the saddle, and almost exactly 50 km. I averaged 77 HR%Max, with a peak of 89% (there were a couple of small hills into the wind that really pushed me). I was very happy at the end of the ride that I felt so good – minor leg soreness, but nothing long-lasting. Most of all I was very happy that I had managed to stay hydrated – I drank almost 3 litres of fluid in 2.5 hours (2 litres of water and 750 ml of Gatorade), plus a good glug of water as soon as I got home. My fitness is definitely improving, which is very good. The next challenge will be a 100 km ride along the Kep Track, from Mundaring to Bakers Hill, return.