Looking back over this year’s STP versus prior year’s results, several things come to mind as to how I can repeat or even surpass my performance.
STP Helpful Tips:
1. Don’t take training too seriously – really, the STP isn’t a race
2. Keep hydrated – you can always refill along the route
3. Eat at regular intervals – this was every hour for me
4. Eat and drink what you train with – yes the STP offers free food and drinks, however, for a one day rider, eating something you are not used to can make getting on the bike difficult
5. Keep breaks short – less than 10 minutes to use the restroom and then get back on the bike, more than that and I tend to cool down and stiffen up
6. The night before verify everying – it should have been checked before leaving home to get to Seattle
7. I found that drinking a quart of chocolate milk before I goto bed and first thing in the morning before the STP really helps – I also skip a big breakfast, no need to have a brick in the stomach while riding
8. Obey all traffic laws
9. Don’t be afraid to pass – riding in a unorganized mass of cyclists is crazy especially when you can bypass the herd by going around them
10. Eat while riding – no need to stop just to open packaging, prepare ahead of time with ziplock bags
11. Train like you plan on riding the STP – want to go fast, train that way
12. Get seat time – the more you are on your bike, the more comfortable the STP is
13. Carry extra cash, cell phone, patch kit, things you may not carry on a short ride – the STP is a double century after all and the support crew will not always be where you are
