Not sure how steep the grade is ... probably 10% ... nothing really bad. Probably similar to Old La Honda, but the climb is really short ... maybe 1 mile, if that. It's enough to make the time trialer grit their teeth.

Some of the really close ups were because they were cutting the angle short around the turn. I wasn't paying attention, but I think they came very close to me. I guess they assume I won't move (which is good both for me and the rider). It's kinda like riding in a paceline ... don't make any sudden moves, and keep your line.