The second annual Tehachapi Gran Fondo bicycle race last weekend was a huge success. The event was very organized and fun, with at least 18 local public safety volunteer organizations spread over the five race routes assisting with rider traffic control, safety, and food stations. Support and Gear (SAG) vehicles spread out to assist cyclists in need of cycle repair.
The routes ranged from a fun 18 miles to a serious 100 miles. Fans cheering with cow bells in hand, sprinkled this small, but spread out community. Over a 1000 riders came from 10 different states. The route took riders through windmill farms, alpine forests, neighboring communities, up mountain grades, to the famous Tehachapi Train Loop, across farmlands, and through valleys.
To celebrate my 58th birthday, Dan and I rode in the Gran Fondo. It was challenging, but with all of the positive cheering and volunteers along the way it was hard to not smile. The weather was cool most of the day, but as we made the last 1500 foot climb the air heated up. I came over the finish line coated in sweat, salt, spit, tears, and happiness.
Thank you to all the volunteers and organizers that contributed to making this event five-star. Oh and I personally want to thank the individuals and families yelling “Go,go, go!” or “You can do it!” or “Great job” or “Yaaaaaaaaayyy” along the way. It made all the difference.
Start planning now to attend this very fun event next September.
Did you guys ride Mammoth this year? I’m up there right now enjoying the Kamikaze Games (spectator only).
Have fun on Whitney. It will be good for you to get back on the horse after your last adventure up there.
And Happy Birthday too. Last I heard you had turned double nickels. Have I been sleeping for three years?
Yes, we did the 100 mile ride at Mammoth. It was beautiful and open. I highly recommend it.
The Kamikaze Games are crazy! That is one to be a spectator. Hope your weekend was fun and no smokey sky. 🙂
I like the get back on the horse idea. Funny, I never thought of it that way. I do have to admit that once in a while (Goat Rocks Wilderness), I get a bit spooked on steep slopes with snow. Thank you again for your thoughts and comments.
And yes 3 years have gone by. Quickly I might add.
That looked very fun. I used to love riding (both road and mountain) and have rode my share of miles. Burned out from the excess I guess but I have fond memories and know how fun it can be. Your road riding will surely help with strength on the trail, so really a cross training sport. Glad you and Dan had so much fun. Which ride did you do? (mileage)
Cycling and hiking muscles are so very different. It sure doesn’t make any sense to me. Hiking helps biking, biking does not help hiking. So weird. Next week I will be climbing Mt. Whitney, so we will see how that goes. I did the 100 mile Gran Fondo with about 8,000 feet of elevation gain. One beautiful rural ride.
You two are the coolest and most adventurous parents anyone could ask for. I’m so proud to be your daughter. Congratulations on your accomplishment, it was definitley an honor witnessing you cross the finish line on your special birthday 🙂
So much love was pouring out of both you and Melody at the finish line. Loved the very loud cheering! My heart was full. Also, I am super thankful I did not run over the casual riding lady in front of me. That would have been very bad.