Oh wow cool, you made it home safe and succeeded in all your outings!

Quote Originally Posted by Crankin View Post
Soooo... Lisa said the first 8 miles out of Chatham were a "gentle climb." Well, once we turned onto Rt. 302, the fun began. This was a seven and a half mile climb that never relented! ...The total ride was 53 miles, with 3900 feet of climbing.
Hey, it's not so bad! It's all spread out over several miles! I do it all the time! Maybe your bikes weren't heavy enough.

So, on Saturday there was a 60% chance of rain predicted....we planned a 25 mile route and headed out early, around 9. The first 15 miles were fine; then we turned onto Blanford Rd. I will never forget this as long as I live. I got behind my husband and went up the first part, about a 12% grade. OK, no problem. Then, we rounded a corner and I saw the road go up and up and up! I was in the granniest of granny gear (and I was thinking of Lisa's 24 tooth granny), pushing as hard as I could, when I heard my friend say, "I'm getting off!" I went a few more feet and I accepted defeat and got off of my bike. I have NEVER walked up a hill. However, this was about half a mile at 18%; I ride up 18% regularly, but not for half a mile. I was so demoralized....After a downhill, lo and behold, the second part of the hill began.I was dying
Now THAT sounds pretty challenging. No shame in walking- helps you recover for the next climb.

It was great fun to meet for lunch with you guys.
I should have escorted you up the 'gentle climb' on 203 out of Chatham and seen you off proper.

On the flats I never ever could have kept up with you speedsters.