I started wearing a full face helmet in '72 and can remember a 50 mile cross country race at the Malvern clay pits, on a hot summer day that really dehydrated me. With the full face, I couldn't get a drink without pulling my helmet off, since I didn't bring any straws. It was 5 10 mile laps and every time I came by the finish, my Dad would offer me some water from a cup. I'd just shake my head and continue, not wanting to lose any time by pulling the helmet off. I came in 2nd in my class and was as thirsty as I've ever been in my life when it was over. I remember downing 5 can Cokes and my Dad stopped me from drinking any more, afraid I'd get sick. When I got home I weighed on the scales and was still 10 pounds lighter than before the race. It would kill me to do something like that now. I know after that I did strap on a canteen for the really hot days.
