Smiling-

Please tell your bil thank you

That was a huge help.
Luckily, I'm coming from altitude and have similar climbs I can do to get in shape. I am pretty sure, for me it will be keeping properly fueled and not bonking or giving in to the mental issue.
Hoping to get a good group to be riding with and yes, I am going for a podium spot-so all of this is a huge help in planning