Northern California - Use it or Lose it

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View Full Version : Use it or Lose it


BenRidin
01-27-08, 12:20 PM
I took advantage of the break in the rain to go east into the foothills for a little climb fest. My friend John who has been training pretty hard the past few few months gave me a lesson in humility.

Started out in Wallace, made our way past Pardee and up to Jackson via Stoney Creek. Stoney Creek is great climb on a country road. Very few cars. because of the pace John was setting, my legs were starting to feel it.

If the valley is windy, Stoney Creek is usually sheltered. Not today. It seemed we had a headwind the entire way. Without stopping, we cruised down into Jackson, cruised through old town and made our way up Butte Mountain Rd over to Clinton.

Instead of turning right on Clinton (save that for another day), we turned left toward Jackson. Once there, another left on 49 takes us down to Mokelumne Hill. The descent down to the river which is usually fast, was slowed by that evil headwind. Our max speed was only 35! Once across the bridge, the climb begins.

Being my first climb ride since early December, my legs started to feel a bit grumpy. I came to realize we have traveled about 40 miles without a break. this is where the masochist comes out of me. Let's see if we can knock this bugger off without a break.

Soon enough we're off the dreaded 49 and back on country roads. Down Paloma, through Campo Seco and back to car. By then, my legs are toast. The simple rollers which are really simple are bringing the pain forward.

Gawd I've lost it. Time to get em back.

BR



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