The Death Race (err, Ride)

Race Report by Brenton Hamilton

Couldn't have asked for a better day. Kirsten and I were fortunate enough to have Dave Bostedt take us up to this race (i mean ride) with his fifth wheel. That's definitely the way to go.

Woke up Saturday morning at 4:15am to the sound of music blaring from the PA system. After a scrambled egg buritto, slim fast and banana, we donned our TWW jerseys and jumped on our bikes to join the other 2700 riders for the 129 mile trek thru the California alps.

The first two passes were over Monitor. Felt good climbing this one and on the backside descent hit 50 mph - fastest I have ever been on two wheels. Ebbett's was a little steeper in sections (max grade 12%) but was at least shaded by the trees. Completed the two passes on Ebbett's, made my way back to the start line (about 89 miles completed now) and then onto Carson Pass.

I was told they name the Death Ride because of this final pass. It's not steep, just long (about 16 miles up on a 7% grade), hot and into the wind. This one seemed to take forever so I was real pleased to finally see the aid station at the top. Inhaled some fruit, a V8 and my well deserved ice cream and headed back down and onto the finish.

Those who complete 5 passes get to sign this huge poster. When I checked in, there were only 23 signatures on it. Not that it's a race or anything, but I can trully say that out of 2700 starters, I finished 24th. Hey, i'm not competetive at all. I may just have to start shaving my legs.

Race (i mean ride) stats:

distance - 129 miles
elevation gain - 16,000 feet
ride time - 8 hr, 37 min total time - about 9 hrs
max speed - 50 mph

I have to mention the outstanding support - about 700 volunteers in all. At each aid station, they were so helpful. One to hold you bike, another would be filling your bottles while you just load up on food. I will definitely be doing this one again.

BHam

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