Colorado Endurance Series

 RingThePeak 100(ish)k epic ride around Pikes Peak

So I'm not much for racing these days mostly because of the high entry fees and how crowded the events get. I'm used to the old days when everyone knew each other and it cost you $25 to get in.

Well I've found a new interest in the Endurance race format, first off it's free, second is that there is usually a limit of under 100 riders.

And you ride self supported and no officials to muck stuff up.

So I threw my hat into the race back in June and have been training a little bit for it. It will be an all day adventure on familiar trails and right in my back yard with people I know.

I'm planning to race ala single speed and have been dialing in the right setup for this one. The route is about 72 miles with close to 12'000 ft of climbing and lots of hike a bike. It will be held the first of October so day light will be a premium and require and very early start. I hope to finish under 10 hours and possibly closer to 9 hours.

I've been training with my friend Ron in support of his Leadville 100 race coming up soon so that has helped a lot. A couple of weeks ago I did a solo ride over to Salida on a modified route from the one Ron and I did for his training. I chose to go single speed and all in one day, that turned out to be a 106 mile 8k of climbing route that took me 9 hours to finish with about 20 minute lunch stop mid way.

I felt pretty good after the ride and have been riding strong since so I think I can do alright if all goes well. I have a few more training rides to do and iron out my gear, as well as doing some pre-rides of some sections that I have not been on.

Then the end of September Julie and I are planning a trip to Arizona to see her Mom. This will give me a chance to get some quality low land spinning in, always a good way to taper for a race or event.

I've been following the Tour of the Divde race and the CTR that is happening right now and I'm getting the bug for this Endurance race thing. If all goes well I my try a few more races next year.