Another amazing Rob's Ride! (Before you read this I must tell you that Rob's Ride is certainly not a race... even if it's got a start and finish line and has more than one person)
In the past we have faced some rain on Rob's Ride but this year with the new route we enjoyed jacket free weather, riding through the beautiful Kootnies.
Day one started with a FREE swim at the Grand Forks pool, while dodging the drifters and enjoying the first bit of koot hospitality. We then made our way to the start line in Castlegar. I felt strong starting out, but the moderate pace was soon shattered by Jason who felt like smacking me out of my triathlete hibernation on the first hill... Mission accomplished! We rolled into Nelson for some java n snacks to prepare for the ride into Kaslo, which boasted multiple sprint zones. I rode with the front group for some time before realiizing it was a three day ride and I had to answer natures call at some point. With a reasonable pace we arrived in Kaslo for some cold beverages.
On day two I awoke to blue sky and a a crisp sunny morning. We started the long steady climb out of Kaslo holding a quik steady tempo over the top with some atacks and BPR victory soon after. After a cool desent we enjoyed a delicious brunch and Joerg's hospitality in New Denver. We then enjoyed a steep climb out of New Denver that included some more exitment and another BPR 1-2 punch. I stayed with the front group for about 30km after the climb but after a rest stop I realised my legs were asking for some mercy before day 3. After dragging my spandex clad bum home I enjoyed an adventerous run along the river in Castlegar with Mike and Andrew. We then finished the night off by cleaning out the indian food buffet.
The final day began with some pancakes and extra greasy bread doused in syrup. Much distracted by our feeding habits Mike, Andrew, Anton and myself were a couple minutes late heading out. Once we caught the peleton we reached the base of the Bombi and started out at a reasonable pace. After climbing for 45min Brian hit the gas at the top and we were desending before we knew it. Next we rode on some quiet and scenic rodes along the river into Trail. After a 7-11 pit stop,we began the 10km climb up to Rossland which pitches up to 17%. With a dozen stong cyclists in the group we started to accelerate until the group only contained 3 guys... All BPR of course. After a BPR 1-2-3 we drank some more coffee and headed up the last, even steeper climb of Rob's Ride. As we climbed it cooled off more and we made our way past the snow line. At the top it wasn't to cold but we all still got some extra clothing from the support vehicle before enjoying the fast descent into Castlegar.
This was the third year in a row I have done Rob's Ride and I look forward to a forth year of riding in a beautiful place with great people and good times.
Thanks Rob and Anton for this great event!
