Romero was beyond words with the views. I have never ridden this ride. It started off very rocky and steep and I had a tough time getting started!
Once I was rolling, it was all uphill for seven miles, with rock loose fire road, and single track with big rocks, big, big rocks, lots of rocks - and smooth, hot sun and some shade. Doug and I both got burned on our faces -- with sunscreen! - We road for some miles up at the ridge for some cadence consistency pedaling - This ride is only 33 miles from new Oma home next to Dani.
We had a lot of fun. The downhill was, again, seven miles of fast, rocky and stay-on- your toes type descent. You can really get some speed, and the views to your right are SOOOOO tempting to glance at, but after my friend took a hard fall doing that, I was paying attention. My hands here hurting and I was getting really tired from the rocky downhill. It was so much fun and I really felt stronger.
Coach said I had 3.5 hours, and I forgot I had changed my Garmin to elapsed time from moving time for the stationary bike, so I was concerned I was riding too long! Argg -- turns out I had a half hour to use.
My ride was 3 hours, 21 miles and about 3300 feet or so.
Got a call to rush back to Santa Monica, and I did - have a depo this morning, so rushing out the door.
I am feeling stronger and my weight just fell off, as Lou said it would. I am very happy with my fitness right now, especially for my age. But riding with Doug (the mountain goat) - I still feel super slow behind him. He waits for me, of course, but I can tell he is riding backwards. Nice to have a riding partner for so many reasons. Makes it a lot more fun, but for safety too. Riders should ride in pairs, when they can.
I am hoping Marwan can start jumping in every other weekend, I miss riding with him too.
BIG THANKS TO COACH LOU!!!!!!!!!!!!
amazing views Cheryl! looking forward to our next ride.
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