"The Single Hardest Day in Life for Cyclists" - Diabolical Double Garrett County Gran Fondo Reflection

Embarking on what was described as "The single hardest day of even the most fit cyclist's life," I found myself drawn to the challenge of cycling one of North America's most demanding century rides. Why? It wasn't just about testing my physical limits; it was about delving into uncharted parts of myself, pushing boundaries, and embracing the ethos of relentless pursuit.

My journey into the realm of world-class challenges began at Trek , where tales of epic rides and feats of endurance were commonplace among colleagues. Inspired by this culture of determination and fueled by the words of Regional Director & Sales Leader Chad Westlake, who emphasized the power of commitment and showing up at one's best every day, I felt compelled to explore how these principles applied to my personal life.

At Trek, it's commonplace to uncover remarkable stories among colleagues. From conquering Tour de France stages to embarking on epic bike tours spanning coast to coast, the adventures never cease. Presently, one of our own is venturing across Kyrgyzstan for an exhilarating three-week bike tour. Here at Trek, our culture thrives on a shared passion for competition, fitness, and the thrill of accepting new challenges (Challenge Accepted!).

And so, with a David Goggins-inspired mindset, I embarked on a 65-day preparation regimen for the 2023 Gran Fondo, determined to mark my 1-year anniversary of committing to my health and wellness journey in cycling. Many stated that the training timeline was not enough time to adequately prepare for this sort of ride, which easily rivals the European climbing classics such as Etape du Tour , and La Marmotte .?However, for 2023 (#23), I wanted to push my boundaries and limits.

On June 17th, astride the Emonda SLR 9 (Di2) , I tackled the formidable Garrett County Gran Fondo course—a grueling test of endurance that included over 120 miles of challenging terrain, 38+ climbs, and a staggering 16,500 feet of elevation gain. From heart-pounding descents to soul-crushing gravel climbs, every mile was a battle against doubt, fatigue, and the temptation to take shortcuts. Located in McHenry, MD, climbing grades transition?between 5% and 20% over the course of two to five miles, which take you down descents at speeds of 46+ mph with hairpin turns.

This portion is for anyone who appreciates "nerding" out over design, engineering, innovation,?and technology, as it relates to cycling. For the?data junkies, quantitatively I spent 11 Hours and 37 mins on the Emonda (moving time) with a total of 13 hours and 23 minutes for the entire event.?A total of 38+ climbs and +16,500 feet of elevation throughout the +120 miles.?What better place to test Trek's flagship and lightest climbing/race bike (Emonda SLR 9) than the 2023 Garrett County Gran Fondo ?

Fast forward to mile 73, I approached what is known as Blue Lick Road, the event guide stated that I had the choice to cut 1hr and 30 mins off from my ride time if I continued straight or I could continue on Blue Lick Rd, which would be "unsupported." My first question was, "Would that still qualify as the Diabolical Double?" I did not comprehend what unsupported meant, but in my mind, anything other than committing to the original path or destination felt like a shortcut and a cheat to the process. So, I opted to take Blue Lick, which entailed a mile and a half of gravel and climbs that snatched the soul. At mile 86, I experienced immense dehydration and had to push through 13 miles while praying for water. At that moment, I was tempted to drink from the swamps and streams. I know, but similarly to life the irrational always manifests within delusion. My senses began to wish for a life straw, but I considered the consequences of parasites within my delusion. The route truly lives up to its name of "diabolical ." The temptation in the wilderness to give up, take a shortcut, or walk away became a very common theme throughout the ride. The best way I can describe it is that I went through every emotion (i.e., fatigue, doubt, desperation, fear, faith) while trying to complete this ride.

Although, I experienced something similar at Skyline Drive , which somewhat prepared me for this encounter. What I learned is that even when the body encounters its so-called breaking point, the "will" can power one through life's moments of complete exhaustion. It still was painful, however, I soon realized the "human will" pushes you through what feels like life's most testing moments and propels you over its mental hurdles.

At mile 89, I came across two other cyclists who were climbing a ridiculous grade and inquired about where the next aid station was located. They responded," Mile 103 would be our next rest stop." In all honesty, I winced. My mind began to tell me how far that was and assured me that I would not make it. Well, fortunately at the 99-mile marker, one of the cyclist's wife and friends had water and Cola waiting upon our arrival. Because we were losing daylight, we opted to finish the ride together

As the miles wore on and the challenges mounted, I leaned on the camaraderie of fellow cyclists and the unwavering support of friends like Glenn George II, whose foresight saved us from the darkness of nightfall with spare lights and hydration. Together, we navigated the final stretch of the ride, drawing strength from each other and the knowledge that, even in our darkest moments, the human will is a formidable force.

The Bontrager Commuter Pro - was enough for the three of us to see in pitch darkness both markers and the entire wildlife in the dead of the night.?The Garmin 1040 Solar was super helpful with anticipating gradience and gear ratios to manage ascents, cadence, and watts average to reduce burnout. I am terrible at charging my devices so the solar feature helped add 2 hours to my bike computer battery life.

The last 20 miles were purely mental and a true test of the "will" to complete. Several riders tapped at the 65, 90, and 103-mile mark. You may ask how or why, and my only answer would be a lack of effective energy management. Sometimes you are "ahead" in life and sometimes you are "behind," but if you maintain a consistent stride or cadence you stand the chance of finishing the goal you set out to complete. In other words, "Ride your Ride." Your purpose and destiny reveal themselves to those that do. In the end, as I crossed the finish line, exhausted but triumphant, I knew that I had not only conquered the course but also gained invaluable insights into the power of perseverance, camaraderie, and the indomitable human spirit.

KEY UNDERSTANDING

At the heart of the journey, I relinquished the urge to measure my pace against others. Instead, I immersed myself in the rhythm of each pedal stroke, embracing the significance of every step toward my unique destination. In this introspective shift, I found a profound solace—a way to navigate life's trials and tribulations with greater resilience. By grounding myself in the present moment, I discovered a newfound strength to weather life's storms and endure its pressures with grace and fortitude.

KEY REFLECTIONS:

-?Personal development is inspired by the quality of an Organization's culture and values (How such qualities are enacted and woven into the fiber of the organizational structure).

- If there is a sponsorship friendly enough to the human condition that exists, we can accomplish the unimaginable.

- Major and minor accomplishments are rarely if ever captured alone or without others' support and contribution.

THE TECHNICAL:

- The Emonda SLR 9 felt extremely stable at steep descents and high speeds.

- The bike weighs around 15.6 Lbs and the H1.5 Geometry is forgiving on climbs like none other.

- Shimano Dura-Ace 9200 (Di2) leaves nothing on the table, but pure shifting and componentry excellence. I would liken the shifting experience to that of a Porsche 911 GT3 or Lamborghini with most enthusiasts describing the experience as "butter." I wholeheartedly agree with this connotation.

- Carbon wheelset and Trek's best-in-class offering is the Bontrager RSL 37s which supported less energy when facing high-gradient climbs.?

In summary, I felt married to this?superbike. It was my vessel and or tool to accomplish my mission and goal.

Key Takeaway:

Lastly, "We are already who we are seeking to become." That gem came from my tri-athlete friend, who challenged me to believe before I ever began. Thanks, Brian!

As I look ahead to the next challenge, I carry with me the lessons learned from the road—the importance of commitment, the resilience of the human spirit, and the belief that, with unwavering determination, anything is possible.