My first 100 km ride (and the bonk at km 82)
I had been building up for three months: 40 km, then 60, then a hilly 75. The plan for the century was simple — ride easy, eat every 45 minutes, and don't chase anyone.
The first 80 km
Honestly, it was lovely. A cool morning, a tailwind along the coast, a bakery stop at km 50 where I ate a croissant the size of my helmet.
The bonk
At km 82 I realised I had skipped two of my planned snacks. The legs went first, then the mood. I sat on a kerb, ate everything left in my jersey pockets, and waited fifteen minutes. It worked.
Lessons
Set a timer for food. Carry more than you think. And the last 20 km are always longer than the first 20.