Goldfinch:

Since I am really more now into mountain biking than road riding, 4 years ago two friends talked me into doing a 5 day trip along the North Rim of the Grand Canyon. Note it was a camping trip and the areas we stayed in were very remote; no facilities at all. NONE!

Anyway, I read the ride description. It was suppose to be a moderate/intermediate trip and average skills. I wrote the ride organizers (Western Spirit at of Moab, Utah) and asked many questions. I convinced myself that the trip would suit my level of riding. Other than normal riding, I did no other training.

So long story short... hardest thing I have ever done. Technically over my head and the distances were very long (25 - 35 miles a day) at high altitude (9000'). I was that person who came in last every single day, sometimes hours after everyone else. I can't tell you how physically tired I was... dead dog tired; I could hardly eat dinner. As soon as the sun set I was sound asleep. One night, after coming in 3 hours after my friends; I said "screw it!"; took off my clothes in front of everyone (for an old, fat lady not a good thing) and enjoyed the solar shower; I just needed to be clean one night and after the ride (35 miles 5500' of climbing) I needed something to cheer me up...

BUT I will never ever forget that trip. One of the most beautiful places I've ever been (lovely remote places alot of people never see). I pushed myself to the limit and perservered. I made some lifelong good friends. I proved to myself I can do whatever I put my mind to... I would do it again no question (although I may try and train alittle!). Point is... you don't know until you try...