I'm trying to step up my training in preparation for the Spooktacular ride later this year. I'm taking the slow and steady approach. The weather is warm. Mild winds from the North West. The legs felt pretty good to start. I made it to the summit of the descent in good time. I cruised the downhill and put to digs over the risers. The bike was making some rattling noises, so I stopped once to see if it was from the GPS mount. Otherwise, non-stop till I reached the base. I think I got there in about 25 minutes. So, good time. The return trip required a bit of patience. The heat was bearing down, the lack of wind condition made it a bit more difficult. I concentrated on the landmarks. I was in and out of the saddle. All the while mitigating the hand soreness. After reaching the second dip, the morale was feeling a bit better. The heat was so detracting, though. I made it to the summit in good time. I think it was around 1:05 hours. I took a few moments rest and decided to add OTR as I originally planned. Nothing much to tell, other than it was getting hotter, so I had to pace myself accordingly. After reaching the summit, I turned around and headed back home, no stopping. I was going to stop to take photos of the local deer, but they were gone by the time I made it back. I pushed over Mariposa, put the usual dig over Weston and then shut it down after reaching the top. Concentration was good. Somewhat impaitient to start. Perhaps a lack of good morale from the unwanted heat. Balance and form was good. Gear worked flawless, although the bike was exhibiting some rattling noises over the bumps. The breaks were squealing at times. Nutrition was good. No hunger signs. I went through half my water and some Gatorade. Other notes, no other cyclists today.