Hotter N’ Hell Hill Climb
August 17, 2013 – Upland, CA
Cat 4 – DNF

While the general mantra is that you descend into hell, this race really is about ascending into hell, this wan’t a formal race it was more like a friendly race between a few of my friends and theirs which we all had the same destination in mind. At the top of the enormous “mountain”, it’s more of a hill, there is a landing strip perfect enough for a plane to land. It’s not your average airport, however you can get on it but the only way down is by JUMPING. That’s right, we all had planned on going on a skydive, but before that we wanted to have a little challenging “race”. The way up was exhausting, but the way down was way better and a smother ride. We won’t mention much of the skydive today, we’ll leave the for another post. First off, the first portion of the climb isn’t that steep, it’s just hot because you’re in a canyon and there’s no shade. The second portion of the climb is cooler (sort of) since you are higher up and there are some trees. However, at this point you’re dealing with 15% gradients… 8O. And, I won’t even begin to mention that it’s 4,100 feet of climbing up to the Mt. Baldy ski lifts at 6,000 feet.

I had really wanted to do well at this race, but sometimes things don’t work out. One of the advantages of being an “older” racer is that you know when it’s best to call it quits (NOTE: I wanted to entitle this post per Kenny Rodger’s “The Gambler”…”Sometimes you got to know when to hold them, know when to fold them”).

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I actually started this race faster than I did last year and my target power level. However, I had two things going against me. My Achilles tendonitis has flared up a few days beforehand, and I’m not one for pushing it in the heat.

Looking back at last year’s race, the temperature was about 10 degrees F warmer this year. While that might not sound like much for those of you who aren’t from SoCal, that’s pretty significant considering the intensity of the sun this time of year. Put it this way, riding through the shaded tunnels along the course didn’t help. By the time I reached about 3,000 feet, I was done for. My heart rate was near max even though my power output was averaging an easy tempo pace for me. I decided to just finish at the Mt. Baldy Lodge and wait for Rose’s sister to come by (she was going to meet us at the finish, so we didn’t have to ride down). Plus, it was shady and there was water, so I knew I wouldn’t died.

Now for the part of the race that made me happy…

This was Rose’s first time doing the Baldy TT (and even riding up to the lifts). Last year, she was my chase vehicle. This year she also wanted to do it. Rose’s climbing has really improved the past year by riding with her Pink Ladies cycling club. I knew she could finish, but had no idea how well she would do.  I cheered her on at the lodge and she was flying. I was impressed. Her sister picked me up and we were able to cheer her along when she got to the steep switchbacks. Rose was struggling, but passing many guys along the way. She ended up finishing in second place for the Cat 3-4 women (not to mention how many guys she beat).

I was extremely proud of her and we’ll both be targeting this race next year…I just hope it’s not as hot… 😀

Here are some photos of her climbing during the TT from PB Creative:

BTW, you can actually ride this route year round unless there is significant snow in the winter. It can be a little chilly on the descent, but I can’t complain about riding up to 6000 feet in January!