In the first 60 miles my group was averaging above 22 mph and then the heat broke 100 degrees (at 10:00am) and our speed dropped to about 13 to 14 mph. We also hit a 20 mph head wind at the 62 mile turn that followed us to mile 90. Our goal was to stop at the 20 mile marks but we ended up stopping at 20, 40, 60, 80, & 90. At 80 and 90 we had to stop and fill bottles (of course!) and sit for a minute to bring out core temp down. At mile 62 they have a check point called Hell's Gate and normally the cut off time is 12:30 but they shut it down at 11:00am due to medical concerns and the exposure for the remainder of the course. Times for this ride are irrelevant due to the EXTREME heat. Simply finishing is honorable enough. All things considered, I'm really glad I went. It was fun in spite of the heat and now I know what my body can handle!

Nothing, I crossed the finish line and that's the best that ANYONE can expect in these conditions.

Cold water, then ICE COLD CORONAS.


Heat.......duh!


The volenteers make this event. The entire city is on board for this one. It was truly amazing! There had to be at least 50 volenteers at each aid station not counting the medical personnel. I also never thought pickles wouold be good for an endurance event, but I honestly think they helped a lot. I plan to do this ride every year if possible! It was great!