25 miles and still kicking

So, much to my relief, I was still able to ride 25 miles after a break from any serious riding. A group of my ex-teammates/coaches do a casual ride every weekend around stanford. I actually showed up to it for once. It was a great ride. 25 miles, which used to be an easy no brainer for me. One climb up Arastadero hill just past the wild life preserve, and a bunch of rollers down Juniper Serra and Foothill. Because this was a group of experienced riders, I think I was able to maintain about a 20 mph pace average. FUN! Going down Junipero Serra after Arastradero, I didn't get on Ruth's wheel quick enough when they decided to pace behind the tandem coach George and his wife were riding. I did about 28 mph solo, sure I'd be able to catch up and grab their wheel. Never happened. They eventually stopped and waited for me. I was shocked I was riding so fast and couldn't manage to catch them. Apparently, they got a 35 mph pace going behind the tandem! Crazy. I was laughed at when at about mile 20 I confessed that this was the longest ride I've done in over 6 months. Good times, and my legs survived.