Woke up planning to do a 40-50 mile ride, but my stomach was not cooperating. Ate breakfast like I would be out for hours, but at 10:00 I knew it would not be happening. It was a perfect summer day, with questionable weather for the next 3 days, so I forced myself to do a short 15 mile ride. Actually it was OK, but I paid for it when I got back.
On the back side of the loop, there was a guy ahead of me, not that close. Every time I climbed, I got a little closer, but not close. Then when i went to turn right and go up a little rise, I passed him. It was an older (well, he had white hair) guy on an older tri bike. He looked a bit confused, I asked him if he needed help, but he just glared at me.
I guess I wasn't meant to climb the hills in Harvard today. Next week.
Mudmucker, I know exactly what you mean about the longer, less steep hills. I would rather climb a steep, short hill any time. I think I wouldn't do well in California.