| You see, back in 1979 when I last rode the grade, I had combined two mountain passes and an additional 60 miles on top of what I was attempting today. Also, in my feeble brain I reasoned that I was on a 10 speed road bike at that time instead of the 18 speed mountain bike I was using today. "This would be a snap" I thought, I can conquer this thing in a couple of hours and show up at the memorial refreshed and ready to help with the setup. |  |
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 | So it took me about 3 feet to realize what I had gotten myself into. As I pedaled ferociously in first gear, I realized my 2 hour estimate was a little shy of reality. As the buzzards circled overhead and the flies landed on me, slowly I climbed the pass. About halfway up and at one of the steeper areas, I decided walking would be faster. Watching my watch, I knew when Kathy would be leaving behind me, so I could get back on the seat before her arrival! Well, Kathy left early and busted me walking. Fumbling for an excuse, I blurted out incoherently "I'm almost out of water!". "Okay, I'll get you some and be right back!" |
| As she drove away, I was determined to make even better progress. I did and it killed me, put it helped restore my image in her mind that I could do it. I made it at least another mile when she caught me again and after a refreshing water break, I continued to the top where she sat waiting for me. Just to prove my virility, Ben, Tiva, Bob, Kat, Kathy and I went riding the following day around the city of South Lake Tahoe. This was easy pickings for me. Gave them a tour of my old homestead on Fir Ave. where I lived with about 10 other roomates. |  |
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