mental limits

PART III:
Mental limits

In 2001, I was going to ride from Inuvik, the furthest point north in Canada to Point Pelee, the furthest point south. The goal was to do the 7200 km distance in 18 days, averaging 400km per day. The Dempster Highway consists of 750 km of a rough gravel road. I made the mistake of trying to achieve the 400 km per day goal on that road as well. I made it through the gravel roads alright, but after two more days of an incredible effort against a headwind, it was time to re-evaluate my circumstances. My mind kept going back to the 4 days I had just gone through. My thinking process would not allow me to entertain the very real possibility that the next 14 days may be much more forgiving conditions. I kept thinking about another 14 days of the same thing. I could not accept the challenge. I had gone through a lot physically, but it was the mental challenge that got the best of me. I stopped riding after 4.5 days. The ride home was one of the most difficult things I have ever experienced. Mentally, I had reached my limit for that trip.

After 5.5 days during RAAM, my neck muscles failed. Besides the physical challenges RAAM throws at you, now I could no longer hold my head up. I had over 5 days to go. How was this going to be possible? I had two choices, quit or find a way. My crew (my kids) went to a hardware store. They bought some PVC tubing and duct tape. They built a frame mounted on my back, which allowed me to strap my chin into a duct tape sling. I was able to hold my head up, without putting strain on my neck muscles. For 24 hours after that, I fought the desire to quit, but I stayed on the bike. Mentally, this was one of the hardest things to accept and fight through. Five days later I arrived in Annapolis, 10th overall and first in my category. For that time and place, I discovered mental toughness I did not know I had.

Conclusion

Ultra-marathon is a classroom. The subject is character-building. Within a very defined time frame, you will experience mentally and physically, the highest of highs and the lowest of lows. You will push former perceived boundaries and limitations, never knowing how you will respond. Sometimes crossing your limit can come as a result of seemingly minor things like a flat tire, a bit of rain, or even an unsupportive crew member. The next time those same adversities will be the motivation needed, to set a PB. In ultra-marathon cycling, there is no guaranteed outcome, but one thing is for sure, you will be stronger in character because of the experience.

Application of lessons learned coming in a couple of days