Chickadee #2 Results and Photos

It was hot but not too hot: 87 in Truckee, 97 in Truckee. It was far, but not too far: 115 miles, with lots of climbing: 11K'. Highlights included: some of the climbing, Virginia City, and the always-beautiful views of the Lake.

There were several flat tires, but all were handled with good attitudes. There was a stop to a friend's house and a bike shop for patch kits and spare tubes. We received some questionable looks by locals in Carson City. There were plenty of stops for food, coke, water, and at least one 30-minute nap halfway up Spooner.

Attendance was slim, possibly due to the intimidating route. This was unfortunate, as the route was truly epic, beautiful, enjoyable, challenging and rewarding. 9 total riders of varying speeds braved the 7am start time and cold temps through Martis Valley. They were quickly rewarded with reasonable temperatures for all but one of the climbs. Riders of similar speeds formed groups and rode together, which is definitely a lesson for these longer rides- it's much more fun to ride with someone! Flat tires and water stops kept the group somewhat together until the climb up Spooner, at which point the heat, distance and climb blew things apart.

Pizza and beer taste even better after spending 7 hrs in the saddle.

Photos

Results:

REMINDER: Chickadee #2, Road, Sunday Aug 16

REMINDER: This Sunday is the second Chickadee event of 2009. Come excited, come prepared, come hydrated, come fueled, and come with money, a cell phone, a positive mental attitude, and maybe a headlamp (well ok, maybe not a headlamp, but you never know).

We’ve made a “small” modification to the planned route and departure time. Details, maps and instructions will be distributed at the start. Please be ON TIME!!! It will be a long day, we don’t want to leave any later than we have to, and you don’t want to ride alone.

Start: Wild Cherries, Leaving at 7am SHARP!!! If you’re coming, plan on being ready to ride no later than 6:30am. Please park AWAY from the coffee shop- on the other side of the parking lot, or even park on the side streets by cyclepaths and ride over
Finish: BEHIND Cyclepaths, look for the tired cyclists drinking beer in the shade
Specs: 115miles, 11,000’ climbing, 5 KOMs
Route: Easy to follow, all pavement, major/known roads
Bike to bring: Road
Reminders: This is an unsupported fun ride. Most riders will have 2 large bottles on their bike, and some will carry a third in a jersey pocket. Bring PLENTY of food (e.g. Extra drink mix, 6+ bars, gels, blocks, etc). There will also be plenty of places to stop and buy food/drink if you need it.

See you there!