I'm thinking about doing Bulldog at Camp Pendleton in a couple of weeks. It will be my first actual race. I'll get lost of the "big climb", because I suck at climbing, but hoping my strong flat riding and insane descending skills will keep me from being dead last. Even so, I'm trying to think of it as a good training ride to develop my speed. So, as dh reminded me, even if I come in last, but pushed myself harder than I ever have before, it will be a success.

What I want to know is what the 1 mile climb is really like. What is the grade percentage? I found an old post here where someone was "guessing" between 6-8%, but I'm wondering if anyone can give me more info. I have seen an elevation profile, so I know it's a staircase sort of climb, but I would love to know as many specifics as possible to prepare both mentally and physically.

I understand a little about race strategy. Dh races and I've read race reports, but I'll take any input anyone wants to give. I don't know if any of that will make a difference if I lose everyone on the climb and can't ever catch them, but if the racing gods are with me, I might just need to know some strategy! I don't plan on attacking ... like ever. I'll just stay in the pack on the way out.

Anywho, thanks for any input, especially on the climb.