Leadville Trail 100 Ride

Posted by admin on August 16, 2010 10:05 am / 0 Comments

I accepted the challenge and completed the Leadville Trail 100 Mountain Bike Race yesterday in eight hours and forty-two minutes. It was a tough race, but a super fun ride. I was proud of my effort. My legs cramped badly coming home, but I kept fighting and eating and drinking to the finish. It was an amazing experience. Flying down Powerline in the early morning shadows was a bit of a sketchy downhill. The crowds at Pipeline and Twin Lakes were amazing. I felt like I was in the Tour. Speaking of Le Tour, Levi Leipheimer shattered Lance’s course record, claiming the 2010 title. At the awards ceremony this morning he shared that the race was as tough as any he’d ever done and that the crowds at the Dam were as big as he’s seen.

My support team of Missy, Hillary, my parents and friends were a huge help; I couldn’t have done it without them. It was so uplifting riding through the aid stations with everyone cheering me on. I had some bad luck coming down Columbine when my rear tire flatted, but I repaired it quickly and bounced back. I crashed before the Pipeline aid station screwing around with my water bottle. The attitude on the course was really positive. Everyone was super cool. Once I settled into my pace I pretty much rode with the same group the rest of the day. Talking to others and working together was a big help.

I was hoping to go sub 8:30, but I will be back next year to go for it again! I learned a lot and had a lot of fun. I was happy all of my friends made it to the finish line safely. I’m going to wear my new shinny Silver and Gold Leadville 100 belt buckle all week to celebrate. I can testify that Leadville Trail 100 Race Founder Ken Chlouber’s saying is true, “You’re better than you think you are and you can do more than you think you can.” I was a bit wrecked today from the long day yesterday. I’m looking forward to taking it easy this week. Enjoy the photos from yesterday’s race! Thanks for your support!