There is the climb. The road is scorching hot. It’s so hot that the soles of the feet are stinging inside the cycling shoes. There is the climb. The heat is bearable, as long as there is movement. But hills require greater output, generate more heat, and worse, they slow the rider down. There is the climb.
Sol shines down, and there is no shade. Whatever wind, breeze there is dies away, and it begins. The climb. Suddenly the sweat pours from the brow, and drips into the eyes, stinging, blinding. It doesn’t matter. Not much eyesight is needed at these low speeds. Every hill is steeper in the heat. Save the water. Just a few minutes longer.
The climb. The grade eases a bit, and then the hand goes to the water bottle. More than half blind. Don’t dare descend like this. A shot of water in the helmet and another on the brow. A quick dab with the bandana and the eyes are clear. Take a drink. Secure everything. It’s time to descend. Speed picking up, it’s like the air conditioner coming on! Another gulp of water, and settle in to the descent.
Johann speaking here. I am thinking that Road Dragon is saying a lot here. I am sorry I have not been here to say anything for a long time. It has been a time of much action for me. I am back now. It is good to be again in Georgia. It is good to see so much people riding the bike.
NOTE: Johann the Belgian spent his Winter in South Africa, training. He then went to Europe and spent the Spring racing. Johann is a sometime contributor and commentator on this blog. Welcome back, Johann!
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