This weekend, I conquered a massive 204.51 km "out and back" ride, starting in Xevera, Mabalacat, Pampanga, and turning around at the Pozorrubio, Pangasinan welcome sign.
The Challenge & The Lessons
The route was flat (only 92m elevation gain), but the Philippine heat and pure endurance were the real tests.
The final 50 km proved to be the hardest stretch, battling creeping leg pain and body limitations after the 150 km mark. This pain point, combined with a significant difference between moving and elapsed time, highlighted crucial learning:
1. Hydration is Non-Negotiable: Must keep fluid intake constant, not just during breaks.
2. Minimize Stops: To shave time off the 12h 22m elapsed time, I must shorten up break times dramatically.
This 200K ride confirmed my capacity for long-distance durability and heat training. Now, the goal is clear: efficient stops and stronger legs past 150 km to be truly ready for that ultimate 200 km challenge!