As someone who's done Mitchell in the past (though not in a organized ride), its just like any other mountain when you break it down: just find your happy place gear wise and mountain goat up it until you're done.

After nearly 80 miles before the main climb my happy place will be long gone. In the end it's all about mental strength and just riding to the top through the discomfort.

If you break it down by rest stops, the grades are actually easier than what I've been training on (it's just longer).....A couple easy rides this week..then down to Spartanburg.

This will be my 5th AoMM so I know all about the ride and what it takes. Marion is the halfway point of the ride in effort. Fortunately, this year I am riding with a friend on her first attempt so I'll be less concerned with my time and will probably stop at a few more rest stops. In the past I've only stopped at 4.

It's really hard to predict how one will feel late in the ride. Most times it just hurts. I did have one year where it seemed easy, but I took my time and just made a fun ride out of it. I hope that's how it goes this year. Good luck!