May I Have Another Please?...

What a great 'Buddy Ride' we had this weekend with TNT. The group met at Dublin BART and off to Sunol we went. The turnout was fantastic and the weather was pretty good as well.

The pace out to Sunol was quick. When we arrived at the train station it was decision-making time. Coach Cliff suggested an optional trip up a climb called Kilkare. The group was game so up the road almost everyone went.

The climb itself was good. The distance is between three and four miles and, for the most part, the gradient is moderate. However, it had a couple double digit sections. It was good to know I can still climb a little, albeit slowly. At the top, we regrouped and took on the descent. Ok, this was the really fun part. Six of us bombed down the climb together. Since the descent was not real technical we had a great run. Along the way, a car that was in front of us pulled over to let us by which was nice.

When we got back to the train station we decided on another ascent, so up the hill we went for a second time. At top, the other riders waited for me and then down we went again. The second time was even more fun since we didn't have to wait for any cars. I think Kilkare might be my new favorite medium climb.

For the trip back to Dublin BART we decided to just retrace our steps instead of heading out to 84. Four of us ended up together and were riding in a pace line. All I know is that the pace was fast and they were nearly killing me. Still, I had a great time even while I struggled to hold on.

We finally made it back to Dublin BART (after one wrong turn) and checked out. It seems that everyone had a great ride and people were in great spirits. Having ridden my bike to the ride, I took my leave and ended up with around 45 miles the day.

Can't wait for next week's ride in Sunol. Hopefully, we fill get to roll up Kilkare again. Go Team!