Yesterdays summer rain was very refreshing. I was a little bit relieved as our planned bike ride was to cover the Orange County hillsides and canyons. Hot does not suit me well, so this weather was perfect.....
As we rode in the misty rain and raindrops speckled my glasses.... I thought of where we were headed. I know the course and was anticipating some pretty cool climbs and views....
All I could do was smile as we passed a few folks riding up those hills amd remembered how I used to think that I'd love to one day make this climb look easy. It never is easy, just the fitness you gain does. Yeah, I still breathe a bit hard but not like before. Now the climbs are more enjoyable, yet faster each time.
I had to stop a take a few pics as I always do and as I was getting back onto my bike these two cyclists girls came right past. I always acknowledge anyone who I pass or who pass me up with a good morning or a nod if I can't breathe... haha, whatever the case may ne. These two looked like pretty intense riders and did.not respond. Maybe they couldn't breathe, and talk at the same time, right? So eh, resumed my trek through the canyon. Then here is my favorite part... the climb. It is about a 9.5 grade climb with awesome views on both sides of the road. I have respect for climbs as I have had many instances I felt I could die, not really die, but feel that way by many a hill. My gain was suddenly really close to the those two girls who passed me up. I let them see that I was on their tail for a bit and then I thought, hey I'm feeling good, why let them lead? Let's show them what I've got. It was nice to say hello again without a response from them again, but the best part was that I said to them, "on your left" and powered past them right up that hill... I lead the way up that hill amd never stopped. I never saw those two girls again, I actually thought it might be rude to look back.
I loved the climb as it always gives me challenges and the reward of finality of your effort and that is the descent. The rain picked up as I reached the top and at first I thought, shit I better watch out on the speed and slick roads. It was awesome the whole way down....Fun all the same.
The climb on my bike rocks.... when's the next ride.
Feel the climbs, in life as well... there is always an easy and rewarding part of life.... when is next???
Nice. Yeah, you get some who just don't acknowledge with a hi, and some are just like that. All that counts is that you were able to make it to the summit, and feel good about it. Kudos!
ReplyDeleteThanks Ron, I appreciate that coming from an awesome rider such as yourself.... much respect.
ReplyDelete