It was my first cycling event. While my husband was down with a fractured arm and chicken pox, I took his bib and went in his place. I had never cycled 78km before, the furthest I went was 50km at Kesas Highway.
The ride was scheduled to start at 8.30pm after flagging off the 120km category. We gathered at Econsave Bukit Rimau at around 5pm and took off using SKVE towards Kajang.
I bought my packed dinner. The drive was long with heavy traffic. When we reached there and found a spot to park by the factory area, it was a thrilling feeling. The lack of sleep did not help. My heart was racing as I barely find enough time to eat my dinner and assemble my bike, put on the bib and stickers and roll out to the starting point.
Many riders had already gathered here, the beautiful sun was setting and spirits were high. I lost touch with my friends who were on the 120km category, and was alone throughout the ride.
Not having a go pro and a newbie, it didn't cross my mind to take any photos along the ride. I remembered going up the toughest slope (King of Mountain), a girl who fell because another rider decided to stop cycling in the middle of the road (hope she is ok), and the fast riders buzzing passed while I rode slowly. My front derailleur would shift the chains up at times, which I later learn that I could have done it manually by hand (and time to visit the bike doctor).
I took me 4 hours to complete the ride. I made it home after mid night. It was a great experience. I observed and learnt from other bikers on many aspects of cycling especially on safety and security while cycling. I.e. the head lights and tail lights are a must during night rides.
The down hill ride was fast and thrilling, hitting about 40km per hour, you gotta hold on tight to the bar are fast bikes are sensitive to any minor movements or navigation.