Heat and Age...

just don't mix. I was as usual late for the levee ride this morning, but caught up to Joe on the way out. Joe is about 500 years old and he looked it today. We had a slight head wind going out and I had him sit on my wheel. He kept dropping off so I kept dialing it down. We made it to Florida St and saw Donald with two girls and I really thought we should have turned around there, much better scenery, but Joe wanted to meet the larger group. We finally saw them just past Williams and we turned before they arrived, but Joe didn't have the speed when they passed and he couldn't catch on the tail end. I kept looking back and decided to pace him home. Clayton was on the tail end of the group and if you are used to riding with him you always keep your distance. One he doesn't ride often and when he does he is always at his limit and only mm's from the one in front of him. Jerky moves in the paceline makes for a nervous ride. So anyway I kept Joe with me as I could hear the squeak of his chain. Everytime I lost that sound I would slow down so he could catch up, because it was damn hot. I am talking Africa hot!!! Once we passed the playground I had a look at ole Joe and he is leaning to the right barely on his seat. "You all right?" "Age is not on my side." was the response. So we soft pedalled it home. I left him at the park hoping he is still alive. I am sure he made it home, but I bet he is one tired old dude.