Competitive Commuter - AKA 'Sad Man'

Doug_W

I see this frequently. I usually pass 5 to 10 people in summer , 3-4 in winter if not too cold out and nobody on paths. Get passed by 1-2. As long as I keep that ratio I'm feeling good. Now there are a lot of people on the paths in the summer so most are going about the same speed. Don't usually see them except if fixing a flat or every body is parked under trees during a hail storm.

If I see someone, yes I try to catch, but I don't pass if I'm close enough to get some draft and still working hard. what would be the point . I'd get in front but guy would be right on my tail. If I couldn't maintain the pace to pull away then I don't.

I never pass someone who passes me. I will up my pace to keep pace but will not pass even if I could reasonably unless they really slow down which sometimes happens.

What I find funny is people that I have probably gained 1-2 km on the way home , pass them easily , then they start to go faster, not a problem, then pass me at a stop sign or light. I just catch up and pass 200m down road. It seems silly. I don't see the point of racing away from the light past people that have been waiting.