Sometimes, I can't help but laugh at athletes in this area, myself included. We wait ever so impatiently for decent weather and when it finally does, we nit-pick it to death. Best example, complaints about the wind.
I don't know if everyone develops amnesia and forgets where we live, but, warm weather in the spring usually is combined with the endearing, and often strong, wind. "The Windy City" wasn't meant as a joke. And in the "plains" areas of Plainfield, Oswego, Yorkville, or other similar topographical areas, the wind is unrelenting because there is nothing to block it. But it happens every year. I mean every year. I've lived in Chicago for the better part of 37 years and I don't remember not having wind. And on some of the warmest days we've had this spring, some strong winds have accompanied it. But the tempurature is so nice, who cares? Well, elite athletes are a good place to start.
A couple weeks ago, it was 75 degrees. In April. In Chicago. And, there were strong winds. On a normally packed Wednesday night group ride, several people opted out, because of the wind. Now, it was strong, and with very fit athletes, the fear of tipping over is there, but, it was more of an issue of riding into the wind. So, they rode thier trainers. With sunshine and 75 degree temps well into the evening. The mind reels at this.
Look, I'm not saying I love the wind, but here's my take - last I checked, a lot of us consider Barrington to be "hilly". The climbs of Barrington aren't even blips on truly hilly places, like the Rockies. So, I embrace the wind to develop my strength on the bike and run. Since we don't have big climbs, the wind can provide some great opportunities to do intervals, learn about what gearing works best, or when running, how to get up on your toes. I say, make the wind your friend, and you'll always have a great training partner. One who will prepare for the inevitablity of a windy race. Don't look at it as hinderance, rather make your peace with it, and work on your weaknesses. You'll be stronger because of it. I know I am.
I actually smile when I get to a race and see the wind blowing stuff around. I know I'm always ready. Start thinking that same way, and you will be too.
Stay strong,
Guy
