Saturday, September 02, 2023

First #GCCUSA2023 Ride

Yesterday, I started my Great Cycle Challenge with a Century Ride.

Yep, 100 miles.
That's right ... On my bicycle.
Yep, in one day.
No, my butt is fine.
Nope, I'm not crazy.
Yes, I know you don't like to drive that far.

I have committed to riding 1000 miles over the course of September. I always try to get a good start over the first few days and the long Labor Day Weekend so that I'm not worrying about miles towards the end of the month when who knows what might be going on.

By the time you read this, I will probably have gone on another long ride. If you'd like to follow along or make a donation ... follow the link:



So ... I got started early. I was on the road about an hour before sunrise.


It is still hot here in the Denver area, and getting started early helps reduce the time I'm having to ride in the oppressive heat of the day.


I do tend to go a little slower in the dark, but I don't think I "wasted" too much time.


In fact, this is the first time I've finished a whole Century Ride in less than 6 hours.


I actually picked a fairly flat route with the goal of finishing in less than 6 hours. Of course, here in Colorado, "flat" is a relative term. 

I still managed to log 1,375 feet in elevation gain.



I also got to explore areas I've never been on my bike before north of Denver, which was sort of awesome.


Around mile 70, I started to feel a little worn down, but I pushed through.

I drank a little over a gallon of water during this "little" ride and only stopped at 1 restroom.


By the time I got home, Alexa told me the temperature outside was 95 degrees, which is a little warmer than I think such long rides should be done.

But, I finished. And I finished fast (for me). And ... by the time you read this, I'll have even more miles done ...



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