Leadville 2016

This is an official post to say this race report is not ready yet.

Fatty is writing a great recap.  When my story diverges from his, I'll post my full thoughts.  It's a lot about what was going on in my head.  This was the hardest one.  Damn happy I finished.

The short story:

I am 4/4 on Leadville starts and buckles.  I am very proud of this.

- had the privilege of spending Leadville week with some wonderful people. Made some new friends and had a once-in-a-lifetime experience Thank You!
- went out fast. First in my little group to twin lakes. 9:30 pace. 
- altitude above the tree line kicked my butt, helped one of the group by yelling at her to walk faster and not stop. When that didn't work I whacked her rear wheel with my front.
- puked at the columbine turn-around, thought about quitting
- felt better coming down off the mountain
- walked a lot
- finished in 11:03

Wish I had a big buckle

Humbled and on a Mission

I am humbled today.

A friend (who I've never met...that's the internet for you) posted this on FB:

I've never thought of myself as an inspiration, and I am honored that Hans would consider me one.  I'm just a guy trying to get his daughters to grow up right, be healthy enough to be around for a very long time, and be the best father/husband/son/brother/friend I can.  Oh, and make time to ride as much as I can.  

But Hans has laid it down.  I'll consider that label of "inspiration" as a challenge as well as an honor.

I take on this challenge.  Get Hans across that finish line at 6th and Harrison in Leadville Colorado the 2nd Saturday of August, 2017.  According to my computer, that's the 12th.

As of today, I plan to be putting my knobby tire on the line myself.  If that plan does not work out, I'll be there to captain the crew.  

In the meantime, the rest of my Leadville peeps have some work to do.  Between Randy working for a buckle in 2015, Laurel saying she wants one in 2016, and myself going for a big one...that's a lot of miles to share with friends.

So, Hans...get those cranks turning.  Randy...figure out how to eat 400cal/hour without causing issues.  Laurel...be a rockstar.  

And I'll see you all in Leadville.