Life In The Saddle

The idea of riding the five historic Maratona dles Dolomites routes, over five consecutive days, evolved from a desire to discover and celebrate what this unique mountain range has to offer. Printed on a set of route cards, provided by cyclingdolomites.com , the five routes of this classic Grand Fondo would take me on new roads, and to new heights. It would also provide a challenge that would push bike, body and mind beyond previous limits. This is my #5MaratonasChallenge Sommario - a résumé of the challenge. The greatest memories; the hardest moments; my favourite kit; and the lessons learned. The Final Statistics #5MaratonasChallenge 5 rides 42 hours riding time 873 kilometres ridden 28,300 metres elevation climbed 7 Days in the Dolomites (including the warm-up and #WildCardDolomitiRide) 7 rides 55 hours riding time 1,073 kilometres ridden 36,500 metres elevation climbed The Lasting Memory It is hard to think of one defining moment or memory, from th...

It always takes a few days for me to feel at home in the mountains. Yesterday, I saw the dark side; the unpredictable and untamed alter-ego. Today, thankfully, things were different. After a few days, I begin to descend better; climb better; and even gain small learnings that make the ride that much easier: things like when to put on a rain cape, and even when to eat and drink on the climbs. Day 3 of the #5MaratonasChallenge was clearly my day of coming to an understanding with the mountains. With 175 kilometres to ride, and 5,800 metres of climbing to complete, the 1990-1991 Maratona course was going to be another long day in the saddle. Valparola and new ground The day began with the same ascent of the Valparola pass as yesterday; before a long descent to Cortina, and a new loop up and over the Passo Tre Croci - an incredible little series of switchbacks. Passo Giau From the top of the Passo Tre Croci, it was a long fast descent back to Cortina. The...