Climbing...lots of climbing.

Horses, especially Clydesdale's don't climb very well. You look at anyone who is a good climber in cycling and you can guarantee they don't look ANYTHING like me. Today though...i had to climb. One of the guys from the shop and a buddy of his had a planned ride today of 80+ miles with lots of climbing....all they told me was, "hey, come ride with us Monday, it'll be around 80 miles"...neglecting the whole climbing part. No worries, I'm a trooper. I will say that it is a bit rougher not knowing how hard to push it the whole time because you have no idea what is around the next corner, or how long/steep each climb is...i say that do defend my lack of climbing prowess today. It had nothing to do with the fact that both these dudes where half my size and knew the route....whatever. Here's some pics from our ride up Hwy 215 to the Blue Ridge Pkwy. Absolutely an amazing day, gorgeous weather, and better views that ended with some HEAVY rain fall....luckily the major decents were already done. Good times had by all.

The final tally was 86 miles and just over 10,000 feet of climbing. Really had no idea i was getting into that. Definitely a good training day, and one i wasn't planning on, so that is a definite bonus. The legs felt good all day. No cramps or stomach issues...think i have my nutrition dialed. The altitude was a big surprise. i honestly didn't know there was an Eastern Continental Divide, who knew? or that the roads we were on today were pushing 6000 feet. 18 days till Leadville. Feeling better by the day.