It was a strange day, today. From home, it looked like the sky cleared up. The temperature was in the low 50’s, the wind was mostly from the South East, but turbulent. I got out as soon as I could. I fed before the ride because my energy felt low. I wore arms, knees, jacket, thin base layer, head cap and short gloves. That held me over plenty. I had a headwind on the way out. I made it to the summit of OTR in average time, somewhat slow. The Banducci Wall climb had traffic mitigation and I was going into a headwind, or so it felt. After making it to the Arosa climb, I was a bit more relaxed. The wind continued to be against me. About half way up the climb, my right inner quad started to cramp. I had no choice but to let up. I favored my left leg and weaved my way up the climb as best I could. After about 5 minutes of that, my right leg started to feel better. After making it to the top of Arosa, I let up to recover and then made my way around the backside. I weaved my way up the steep riser to continue to let my right leg recover. By the time I was half way around the backside, my right leg started to feel like normal. From there, I headed to the summit of Banducci. When I made it to the summit, I took a few moments to recover. I let traffic by and then headed back down the mountain. Interesting, that it felt mostly safe. I was going into a headwind, but it wasn’t knocking me around. More of the same when descending off the Banducci Wall, so it was mostly safe even with traffic. After making it back to OTR, it was mostly fun and games. I pushed over Mariposa and shut it down when I made it back to the top of Weston.

Concentration was good. My patience was being tested with the wind conditions against my favor. I held it together and there were no gremlins to speak of. Balance and form felt good. Nutrition was good. I fed part of a banana, apple sauce, a Clif Bar, grapes and some Gatorade before the ride started. That held me over plenty. Ailments were probably the worst of the ride. I cramped going up the Alpine Forest. Fortunately, I knew what to do. Letting up, favoring the left leg and weaving my way up the climb while reducing my speed. Otherwise, my hands were slightly sore or numb when grinding out of the saddle. Gear worked flawlessly.

Other notes, no cyclists today. There were some walkers. I didn't bother checking my time when I reached the summit of Banducci. Likely average at best.