Yesterday I went on my last long training ride for 2012. Finally! I started my ride much later in the day than I usually do for long rides. I didn't get out until 11:24am, so I was riding in the hottest part of the day. Usually I only need a water bottle an hour to stay hydrated and carry two water bottles on me. I went through the first two bottles I had in about an hour and half before I had to refill. Once I refilled I figured I was just thirsty at the beginning of my ride and would have another two hours before needing to refill again. That was a mistake! I went through those two water bottles in about an hour and fifteen minutes. Out of water with no water fountains nor gas stations anywhere close. One good thing was I didn't run out until the long descent so at least I wasn't climbing without water. It seemed like forever until I finally saw a potential water supply. At the base of Red Rocks park is a wedding chapel. I looked around for a water fountain, but there wasn't one. However, there was a facet with a hose attached on the side of the building. I took a quick look around for cameras and witnesses before shamelessly detaching the hose, filling up my water bottles, and reattaching the hose before making a quick get away. I went through that pair of water bottles in about an hour, but luckily I knew of a water fountain close by. It was a hot, painful ride, but I still felt it was a good strong effort so it was an success. No more late in the day long rides for me though!
