I’m in Albuquerque prepping for the National Senior Games TTs. Today I did a mock 5K race effort.
Altitude (we’re at 5800 ft) is not my friend. We arrived Sat night and today, day 3 at altitude, probably would be expected to be one of my worst days. It was painful, literally and psychologically. Down 15% on power from my best 5K time at 5100 ft. For that effort, I just drove an hour to the site, warmed up and put out the effort. I wasn’t staying at altitude.
Anyway, today compared to my previous best 5K effort: warmer by 15 degrees, higher altitude by 600 ft, day three at altitude vs day 0, used my race wheels and all my aero gear, 15% down on power, 6ish mph headwind vs negligible wind.
Still though it was my fastest 5K time ever, by 27 seconds. Jeez. 5% faster time on 15% less power. Fast course.