Blazin Saddle 75 2013

8.3.13

When I joined the Fort Worth Y in March, Lisa quickly mentioned a cycling event in Granbury that takes place each August.  I quickly signed up for the event. A few months later, I met the race director, Scott, at the Y.  Through a series of conversations, Scott and I discussed the possibility of the Y getting involved in the event. While we have not yet determined what that partnership might be, I was looking forward to the ride.  Scott mentioned that he believed that this was the toughest ride in North Texas, and, if a cyclist could complete the 75 mile route, the HHH would be "easy". The HHH takes place just 3 weeks later, and is a 100 mile route.  Blazin Saddle has more than 3900 feet of vertical climbing,  including 3 signature climbs: Skull's Crossing, Mongo's Mountain, and The Peak. 

It was destined to be a hot day, with temperatures climbing to near 104. I arrived a little later than normal, but, was ready to go when the ride started.  

I must admit, that leading up to this ride, I was a bit anxious, as I had not had much time in the saddle lately, and this ride was reportedly difficult.  Additionally, this would be my longest ride to date.  

I got off to a decent start, but, quickly realized that this ride would be challenging. Climbing, rough chip-seal and wind made for a challenging ride. I found my buddy Ross at the 1st rest stop, and spent much of the day riding with him.  

When I arrived to the turn for Mongo's Mountain, I was riding alone. Mongo's Mountain is a 2.2 mile 3% climb.  Typically, I attack short, steep hills, but, this was something entirely different. I will admit that it was tough, but, also very rewarding to complete.  The kicker: another 1 mile climb after Mongo's  Mountain!  The top of "The Peak" was beautiful, as you could see for miles.  

This was a tough ride indeed.  My average speed was a full 2 mph slower than my last 2 rides.  

The stats:  76.21 miles in 5:12:39. 14.6 mph and 4970 calories burned.