Fearsome Five, SRCC Terrible Two Training Ride

[Carl Sanders]

The SRCC club ride promised 129 miles, 15K of climbing out and back over Sonoma County's biggest peaks.  Looked to be a fun day.

We'd start at Alexander Valley School, just east of Healdsburg on Hwy 128. The route would take us first north up and over Geysers, down the backside, then up Pine Mtn., where would turn around for a return trip back and over Geysers again to our starting point.

Some riders got out early, just after 6 AM. I ended up with the ride leader Marc Moons and 10 or so other local hard men for the more leisurely 8 AM start.

Back at the car, a quick refuel and we're off toward another out and back up Ida Clayton. At the last pass by our vehicles, the A riders scattered, and the fragmented remaining group headed up the hardest and final climb of the day up Pine Flat -- the final pitch is the damned steepest paved road that I have ever tried to ride a road bike up, exceeding a 25% grade near the top in the blazing sun. 

That was a long, satisfying day in the saddle. Got off the bike and the legs felt wobbly on solid ground, not spinning cranks up grinders in the heat. Felt a bit like 'sea legs' after being on a boat all day.

Felt strong and steady all day; body and mind holding up well to the heat and relentless climbing. Enjoyed my white sun leg and arm skins -- kept my skin from getting baked and had a remarkable cooling affect from sweat and/or water poured over the special light weight fabric. 

Seemingly on track for a strong finish at the Terrible Two in a month.

[Jim Hewett]

Nice work, Carl.  Way to put in the miles.

[Ken Cabeen]

Great job at the Fearsome Five, Carl! You're gonna have a fantastic Terrible Two. It was great to have you on the ride. Join us again whenever you can.