Well, it's a good thing that I have a bad memory. This ride is a beast, but, I'm back.
I headed out to Granbury to complete this ride for the 2nd time yesterday. This ride boasts 3 signature climbs and nearly 4000 of climbing. Last year was tough.
Fortunately, I arrived this year to temps in the mid 70's, which would make for a much more comfortable ride. The crowd seemed a little light, but, I did see Schwentker and Sheri pre-ride. I'm glad to see John connecting.
The 1st hill is skulls crossing. This hill is much like Nice Hill at benbrook. It's a short, steep ascent. 18• or so. Signage was a bit better this year, but, still a number of people walking their bikes up this one. The 2nd hill is Mongos Mountain. This is a 2.2 mile ascent. I struggled with this one last year. This year, no problem. I suspect the cooler temps helped. I felt great through the 1st 50 miles. No real wind to speak of and great temperatures. I was diligent about taking my endurolytes, and eating fruit and pickles at rest stops. Just after the 50 mile mark, we began to experience some headwinds, which slowed things a bit. I continued to push hard. Along the way, I visited with a number of other cyclists. Friendly bunch at this one. I met a few of the folks from FWBA, including Wayne, a cancer survivor participating in the Livestrong program at the benbrook Y. It was fun visiting with new friends along the way.
At about the 65 mile mark, we had a long rise up a highway hill. I was cranking away and decided I would get out of the saddle near the end. MISTAKE. My left quad locked up, causing me to unclip, walk the bike up the hill and stretch. I got back in the saddle and continued.
The bad news, we still had yet to reach "the peak", meaning more climbing to do. I tried to concentrate on pushing with my right leg every pedal stroke, and, finished in the saddle.
I was worn out, but felt better than last year. I was also about 10 minutes faster. I would have been even better had it not been for the cramping.
Overall, good day. 75.95 miles in 5:03. 15 mph and 5162 calories burned per MMR.
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