First crack at the GOATS' Ups & Dows Ride out of Elizabeth, IL. Started with ~10 from FVBSC but the crowd quickly splintered into different sub-groups. Rode with Rob for most of the first half and met up with Jeff L at the rest stop. This was a tough slog for me as my legs, lungs and heartrate were not used to the steep climbs. Never stopped or walked up hills, unlike a few folks I met. While the climbing was slow, my Infinito was rock solid on descents, maxing out at ~38 mph. Decided to abandon the 52-mile route and rode mostly solo back to the start for a total of ~32 miles. Second half of the course was more rolling with only moderate climbing until the rest stop. Met up with Angie (new member) from FVBSC soon after the split and rode with her most of the way back. Loved the area and the route, but I was clearly not prepared for the effort and elevation gain. Went for lunch and post-ride beverages at Lena Brewing, which helped nurse me back to health.