As you may have deduced I have located another bike tour journal from a couple of years ago. please enjoy and I hope you get the chance to do this bike event.
2004 Santa Fe Century
May 16, 2004
4:40 A.M. Milan, New Mexico - The Inauguration of my Biking Season
5:30 A.M. The Donning of my “Don’t Mess With” Bike Jersey, O Oakleys Sunglasses, ZZ Top Bandanna and the biking Gloves
6:45 A.M. - Santa Fe, New Mexico - Destiny
7:15 A.M. - Well, I arrived about fifteen minutes after the mass start of the Santa Fe Century. The day has already started, the sun shining ever so brightly and some of the riders of the Santa Fe Century were still congregated at the starting line. Forty-five minutes to my start of the Santa Fe Century.
7:30 A.M. - Registration was only $ 10.00 due to them running out of rider numbers. Woo Hoo. Ten Dollars. Basically, this ride only cost me ten cents for every mile rode. You can not beat that deal.
7:45 A.M. - Preparation to leave is almost complete. Fifteen minutes to my start of the Santa Fe Century
7:55 A.M. - I checked and double checked my biking gear and bike. My time has almost arrived...
Get ready readers.....
Introduction
I have an inkling of what I am going to write and this might give you a new and different perspective of who I am, but also who I am not. This journal entry may also seem “harsher” than usual in a sense, but due to the honesty of my written work so far, well this was the way, the only way, the story could be told and remembered down the line for myself.
Before I begin, let me say that the baddest “bitch” south of the Colorado border was waiting and ready for my return and still very, very, very fucking pissed off for me making a fool out of her in 2001. She wanted to take me out and not for dinner! If any of you new and old readers are not familiar with this “Bitch” I suggest you read the previous years of The Santa Fe Century.
In this journal entry, there is a side of me which usually does not come out later in my cycling season. With my time off from work in the beginning of the year and with me training unofficially in full force my “superiority complex” has surfaced much earlier. To be honest, yes I do think I am more superior than anyone, but also a very cocky, emotionally happy, trash talking, non-helmet wearing, Oakley sunglass wearing, sarcastic son of a bitch cyclist. Off the bike, I am a toned down version of myself on the bike, but the pompous, sarcastic side is ever so present.
I have put “superiority complex” in quotes, because last week I recently found out that I have this trait as a disadvantage and that was listed as one of many traits under that category. After reading that I sorta laughed and really thought that was erroneous, but yet something lingered in the back of mind. Well, not even 24 hours later I came to embrace that disadvantage. I was looking back on my life and I have accepted that I really do have a “superiority complex” I would also like to add this was not given, but earned! Earned in a sense, by being born on that particular day.
Anyway, I do hope you readers will once again embark with me for another chapter in the on-going epic of my life on the edge of becoming a Professional Triathlete. Remember this is only an introduction - the meat and potatoes are waiting for us
Since, I have added a new base of readers, I will have to ask for your complete attention for the entire length of this story. In preparation, please use the restroom, grab something to drink and I reiterate - give me your undivided attention. You veteran readers already know the drill, so please take hold of my hand and I am going to take you on another trip into my personal life of a professional cyclist / Marathon runner.
For the readers who do not wish to continue on with me into my world - this is the time we best part company until the next time.
Sunday, May 16, 2004 Santa Fe, New Mexico - Elevation 6,989
Note: Before reading further - No disrespect is intended to any religious parties. My apologies to anyone who is offended. Remember you do not have to read anything you do not want to. All views expressed are mine. thank you."It is hard god-damn work making something this pretty..."
White Men Can’t Jump
Mile 0 - Santa Fe, New Mexico - 8:00 A.M. - Daryl and Tracy leave the starting line together. This is the first time that Tracy has been on an official Bike Event. Daryl was excited to have her along this time. Yet, deep down inside him he wished that he could of had Heidi with him once more. Heidi rode with Daryl in the Santa Fe Century in 2001, but never got to complete the tour. Daryl got very sick the day before and was terribly sick on that day of the Santa Fe Century which caused them both not to finish, but Daryl and Heidi tried as hard as possible to finish that year.
The starting line begins almost on the south edge of Santa Fe at the Capshaw School on Zia Road. The beginning of the route weaves down Zia Road heading west down the almost totally empty streets of Santa Fe on a Sunday Morning. Morning runners, walkers, and other cyclist were enjoying the morning, crisp air. Not cold at all for Daryl, but some riders have jackets, arm/leg warmers on.
The street lights are not really in synch, so every now and then Daryl and Tracy have to stop. Most of the other bike riders stop, but there are the few bike riders who run the red lights. Granted, it is the beginning of the bike ride, the streets are empty, however every cyclist has signed and consented to obey all traffic laws.
Mile 4 - (Approx.) - Daryl, Tracy and the rest of the riders turn south onto Cerrillos Road (NM 114). The ride has so far has been virtually flat, but descending in elevation slightly. The pack of riders that Daryl and Tracy began with this morning are now behind them. They had gotten lucky with the street lights. They were able to beat a yellow light and the rest of the riders got the red signal. Daryl says to himself out loud
“It has begun”.
With that said he immediately “drops the hammer”, so to speak, and has begun the first of many missions this day. First mission - To put some distance between him and the bike pack he left at the red light.
Mile 5 - (Approx.) - Five miles into the Century Ride Daryl has decided to go for it. “It” meaning to see how all his un-official training will pay off. Daryl immediately bends over into his Tri-bars and tucks himself into a more aerodynamic position. He then reaches with his left hand to the CD Walkman on his left side of his fanny pack and pushes play. Truly Daryl’s destiny has begun when he starts his riding music. Focus, focus and no mercy has entered into his ears and katra. Tracy is also more than ready to strut her stuff with Daryl and show them who the prettiest woman is out there today.
You would think that this would be more than enough for Daryl to get into his mode. You are correct readers, but Daryl wants more. Like a child in a candy store. More is better. If you readers, do not remember the pre-intro to this story, Daryl is wearing his favorite bike jersey for this year. Whenever Daryl has worn this bike jersey, he feels a certain aura of confidence. This particular jersey has the colors of the Texas flag (Red, White and Blue), the word “Texas” on the front of the jersey, on the back of the bike jersey there is a picture of a bull in blue, rearing to charge on all four legs with his nostrils flaring and snorting and the words “Don’t Mess with” underneath the bull. This is almost Daryl to a “T”
Mile 6 - (Approx.) - The I-25 overpass bridge is seen and Daryl is about to ride underneath the Interstate. Once Daryl and the riders past this point, Santa Fe will be at their backs and they will not enter Santa Fe again until Mile 99. Also, The riders will not see the Sangre de Cristo range that is just North of Santa Fe until Mile 61.6 and when the riders glance at the mountain range in the distance, the far distance, some riders will question their mentality, others their will, and other will simply wonder why the fuck did they choose to ride the Century route.
Mile 9 - (Approx.) - The State Penitentiary is just east of NM 14. Razor wire, chain link fences, concrete walls, guard towers and the all too common look of a State Prison/Penitentiary you see in the movies.
Mile 15 - (Approx.) - The Lone Butte Store - How the store is named, is how the store is. The single store in the middle of nowhere, yet close enough to the State Penitentiary.
Mile 16 - (Approx.) - Two riders have passed Daryl, but not going too fast for Daryl to start his first retaliation attack against these would be cyclists. Unfortunately, these two riders past Daryl on the downhill and these two riders were in drafting positions with each other. What that means is that Daryl is going to have a bit of a chore to do. Yet, after looking at these two riders, well it is such an odd combination. One was a bit “chunky” and the other was, well... he was “past his prime”. LOL. If you readers can not figure out who was leading the descents, let me tell you flat out readers - “chunky”. Why? Well, more weight. The “Past his Prime” guy drafted him for all his worth. Hell, even Daryl would of drafted this guy, but only on the descents. Daryl knows this “chunky” guy was going to have some difficulty with his hill climbing.
Mile 16.2 - (Approx.) - Damn. “Chunky” and “Past his Prime” suck on their hill climbing abilities. “Chunky” was sitting down on his seat while hill climbing and “Past his Prime” was hill climbing okay, but with every turn of “Past his Prime” crank on the climb his body was shifting his bike about 10 to 15 degrees left and right from straight vertical. Meanwhile, Daryl easily caught these two riders and elected to stay behind them for another two miles, since there was going to be a mile descent coming up and he was going to use “chunky” as wind blocker and let them both do all the pedaling while drafting the two of them.
Mile 17 - (Approx.) - Daryl has reached the junction of NM 114 / Route 42. The road bike riders have no choice, except to continue on NM 14. Why? Well, Route 42 is a dirt road and basically an ATB (All-Terrain Bike) Mountain bike route. So, this turnoff is the ATB 50 mile loop to Santa Fe. Route 42 will take the Mountain Bike riders to the small town of Galisteo. The road bike riders will not get to see Galisteo until Mile 79.3 The road bikers will continue on NM 14, with a southwest change in direction. Since mile four, the bike riders have been steadily biking South and descending in elevation with a few little, short hill climbs.
Mile 19 - (Approx.) - Cerrillos, New Mexico - Bottom of the hill and the last of the descending elevation that started from Santa Fe. Looking around at the bottom of the valley you can see the Garden of the Gods and the Galisteo River Valley running from North to South. Daryl, “Chunky” and “Past his Prime” were still a pretty tight small team, but Daryl was not going to say or stay a pretty tight small working together team. Hell no! Daryl was going to make them an example to other riders who try to take Daryl down. Don’t fuck with Mr. Charley.
Mile 19.5 - (Approx.) - Daryl has noticed that “Chunky” and “Past his Prime” have started to slow their speed down way too much for Daryl’s taste. Tis the time Daryl made his move, take the lead and to distance himself from these two “wanna-bes”. Also, this marks the point in the bike route where the next seven miles are the longest ascent on the bike ride.
Mile 20 - (Approx.) - Daryl never looked back after making his move on the two riders that past him earlier. What Daryl did and does every time is just keep looking forward and see who and how many riders are in front of him on the mountain climb.
No rider is safe from Daryl’s hill/mountain climbing abilities. Readers, you are correct on thinking Daryl is pretty arrogant on his mountain climbing ability, but this something he absolutely looks forward to in any bike event.
The mountain climbs are what separates the men from the boys, the women from the girls. Any rider can ride up a mountain, but not just anyone can ride up and make it their goal to pass as many bike riders as possible and to stay off the bike seat. When sitting down in the seat, Daryl interprets that has catching your breath and also not giving 100 percent. However...
Mile 21 - (Approx.) - The first SAG wagon of the day has appeared on the course. The SAG wagon is an army, Humvee looking vehicle. A couple of orange flags are waving on the vehicle and the hazard lights are on. Daryl did not see any riders in the back of the vehicle. The SAG wagons are also operated by the New Mexico National Army Guard.
Mile 24 - (Approx.) - Daryl can see the crest of the road on a hill, but he knows that is not the top of the mountain climb. There is another four miles of climbing the mountain.
In the past three miles Daryl has been steadily passing rider after rider on the mountain climb. With every rider being overcome by Daryl his ego is getting stronger, higher and ready to break down the gate of his silent mouth.
Mile 24.3 - Madrid, New Mexico - (Food Stop) - The first aid station on the Santa Fe Century and conveniently located on the bike route for the riders. Daryl has reached this aid station under an hour, which is fantastic. He feels great, he knows that he is not going out too fast, and he is feeling very confident so far with the initial mountain climb.
In Madrid, the coal company town architecture is rare in New Mexico. Also, in the summer it is the home of a great Jazz series.
Daryl has definitely caught up to a throng of bike riders. A couple hundred were lining up at the outhouses, the food and water table, standing and/or talking or just taking in the quaint, little town’s atmosphere.
Meanwhile, Tracy has been performing better than expected on her first official bike event. So far.
After about spending fifteen minutes at this aid station it was time for Daryl and Tracy to get the hell out of this town and climb the remaining four miles of this mountain.
As Daryl was leaving Madrid, there were a few young girls playing in the front yard of a house and yelling out to each rider “Good morning” & “You’re gonna win” & “Bye”
Mile 24.6 - (Approx.) - A team of cyclists (about 10-15 riders) rode past Daryl and Tracy. Daryl knew from the looks of this team they meant business and Daryl knew he was beaten by this team’s combined effort. He thought about dropping into the back of the pack, but then Daryl elected to continue on his own. Daryl does not count this group of riders against him. It was a team working together and in Daryl’s mind that does not count for or against him for riders passing him.
Mile 26 - (Approx.) - “Hey nice bike” & “71” & “72” & “Morning” & “Hi” & “Hello”
Mile 26.1 - (Approx.) - “Bianchi? Shit, I eat those for breakfast” & “Trek...hmm those bikes are appetizers” & “Thanks”
Mile 26.2 - (Approx.) - “Are you panting because you are excited to see me?” & “This is my hiz-house”
Mile 26.3 - (Approx.) - “85” & “Nice Jersey” & “This is my house” & “Thank you” & “88”
Mile 26.4 - (Approx.) - “Come on. Pick up the pace” & “91” & “Where ya from?” & “You want my powerbar?”
Mile 26.5 - (Approx.) - “How Ya’ll doing?!” & “Schnell!” & “Schnell!”
Daryl also has this huge smile on his face. Smiling like he just got lucky.
Mile 26.6 - (Approx.) - “I guess you better quit smoking” “Guess what? You are the 100th rider I have passed this morning.” “I guess you didn’t have a powerbar”
With all this talking, Daryl is huffing and puffing too, but he is also turning his head to the right and looking at each rider he passes. Viewing each rider and sizing each of them up.
Mile 26.7 - (Approx.) - “I bet you could walk your bike faster to the top than you are pedaling.”
Daryl then notices out of the corner of his right eye that he has attracted a rider. Going on his peripheral vision - the rider looks like to be a potential follower. Well, with Daryl’s trash talking going on and literally he is feeding off that energy of trash talking, Daryl wants no one behind him while climbing this mountain. The only person laughing on this mountain climb should be Daryl and not someone else laughing at his chatter. Daryl decided to drop a gear ratio and put some distance between him and the would be follow-er.
Mile 26.9 - (Approx.) - A glance back and Daryl sees his would-be follower some distance behind him. Technically, he is out of the equation. A threat no more and Daryl is once again the only one laughing on this mountain.
“Who’s your Daddy!” & “I’m just getting warmed up!”
Mile 27 - (Approx.) - Daryl has been talking, well trash talking, ever since leaving the town of Madrid. He has elected not to put on his earphones. He wanted to hear each rider he was talking to and to hear any retorts. He was ready for some small chit-chat, but he doubt anyone would be able to talk to him, because they would not be able to keep up with him to do so.
Mile 29 - (Approx.) - Top of the mountain and Daryl has literally sprinted to the top of the mountain in the past 50 yards or so. Not that he had to sprint mind you. Not one rider past Daryl on his trash talking climb to the top of the mountain. He was “King” of this mountain and he wanted his final ascent to be remembered by his fellow bikers.
Now, there is a downhill descent of about two miles. What Daryl also noticed was the New Mexico wind had finally made an appearance.
The day before the winds were blowing in from the South from 15 to 30 miles per hour. Keeping that in mind Daryl had a mission to get as far South as he can before the sun warms up the land and causes the winds to appear. The wind seemed to come directly from the west, but he could not be sure. Yet, he was also hoping if there is wind that it will follow the same pattern it did the day before.
Mile 31 - (Approx.) - Ahead of Daryl is about three miles of going downhill a bit. The route has once again turned due South.
Damn. Daryl was literally riding like a true Triathlete that is often seen during the IronMan Hawaii Triathlon. Such determination, such aggression, such form. And you have to admit - such grace. Such grace.
Back into his aerodynamic position Daryl was going for the jugular and he was still continuing to pass rider after rider. There were groups of riders he was passing, but also the solo riders in between the groups. Some riders would look behind them and see Daryl riding like a bat out of hell. When Daryl saw the riders turn their heads to look back behind them a smile rose on his face and made him ride a bit more faster. That is what Daryl lives for. Seeing the riders ahead of him being rode down one by one. Daryl actually glanced at his odometer and saw a steady speed of 28 mph.
Looking ahead he could see the riders ahead of him and Daryl started his move to ride like the wind and give the other bike riders a memory to remember. A guy with a bull on his jersey and the words “Don’t mess with” and the image of Daryl passing them like they were standing still.
Mile 34 - (Approx.) - Daryl has noticed the bikers were becoming more and more like him. A cyclist. A true bike rider and not just your weekend bike rider. Daryl speculates he has been making very good progress on catching up to the better cyclists, since leaving an hour later at the start/finish line.
Mile 36 - (Approx.) - Golden, New Mexico - According to the route map, Golden is a played-out gold mining town. Daryl blinks his eyes and nearly misses the town entirely.
Mile 37 - (Approx.) - The junction of NM 14 and NM 344 is reached and the bike route has turned Southeast. Each rider is required to turn. Since, this is not Daryl’s first time on the Santa Fe Century he knows where to look and sees the baddest “bitch” south of Colorado. Daryl has not seen this “bitch” for the past three years, but he is so looking forward to this moment.
This is what makes the Santa Fe Century worth its might.
Mile 37.3 - Heartbreak Hill - (Food Stop) - Many, many bike riders can be seen at this aid station. This is the second aid station and once again placed strategically on the bike route.
Once again there are bike riders standing and sitting around the aid station. Some are at the water/Gatorade table, some at the food table getting some peanut butter sandwiches, nuts, oranges, fig newtons and others snacks. Some are waiting to use the port-o-potties.
The day has definitely warmed up and the sun is shining ever so brightly than before.
Daryl walks over to the water table and refills his water bottle. Along the way he can hear the other riders talking, laughing and just enjoying themselves. While drinking some water Daryl looks to the East and sees the “bitch” waiting. Daryl knows that she has been breaking hearts all morning will continue so for the rest of the day, but Daryl can feel her specifically waiting for him. She has been waiting for the past three years for him to come back into her grasps and she wants revenge. She beat him once and Daryl beat her once and now this is the year to see who comes out on top of this battle
In case some of you readers are new to the epic of Daryl’s life, this “bitch” he refers to is commonly known as “Heartbreak Hill” Heartbreak Hill is about a half mile long climb, but one-quarter of the climb is damn steep and that steep portion unfortunately is at the end of the climb.
Flashback: Daryl was first introduced to this “bitch” in the year 2000. Let’s just say he was used, abused and got his heart broken that year. Ever since that incident Daryl has never forgotten that moment. She actually made him dismount off his bike and walk to the top of the hill four years ago. Every time Daryl reminiscences about that day he gets worked up about being beat. There were twenty to thirty riders walking their bikes up and Daryl only saw 3 to 5 riders actually riding their bike up to the top. After that defeat, Daryl made a promise and he has kept that promise ever since.
It has been said “There is no disgrace in walking and talking up this steep hill. Look back now and then”
On May 21, 2000 Daryl failed. Daryl did walk to the top of the hill, but talked to no one that day. Only a rare occurrence in Daryl’s life that he looks upon with shame. This is an unfortunate memory to remember, but Daryl holds onto grudges for life. In this particular grudge, this has been very beneficial to Daryl’s biking career. After this failure, he had a new perspective on riding and training. Speedwork is great, but he knew that he had to work on his climbing ability from that day forward
Back to the present day. As Daryl is leaving the aid station he eases into the easiest gear ratio of his new bike for the very first time. The third ring on his crank. The one that has been saved for this baddest “bitch”. New ring, old flame, what sort of trouble lies ahead for Daryl. And wait til this “Bitch” sees Tracy. c-c-c-ca-ca-cat fight!
All around him riders already have switched into their easiest gears in preparation of Heartbreak Hill. The riders were taking in the view of the hill, as well as some of the spectators hanging around HeartBreak Hill.
Mile 37.50 - (Approx.) - The time to make some talk has begun, but Daryl forgoes the trash talking this time. No encouraging words to the other riders either. Well readers let’s be honest, it will be a cold day in hell when he gives encouragement to another rider.
“Are you ready?” & “She’s waiting for us.” & “Morning” & “ready?” & “we gonna beat this hill?” & “thank you”
As you can observe readers, no trash talking. So far.
Mile 37.52 - (Approx.) - The real ascent is only about twenty yards away and already riders have been forced to dismount and start the slow, arduous walk to the top of HeartBreak Hill.
Uh-oh
Mile 37.55 - (Approx.) - Readers, if you could only see his face now. Daryl has gotten off his bike seat and now there is this smile on his face you hardly ever see. Not just a smile, but a grin. A huge grin.
“Guess what? you are the first rider I passed on this hill” and “How does it feel to be number two?”
Mile 37.60 - (Approx.) - Laughing can be heard from one particular rider and you do not even need three guesses to figure out who’s laughing. But readers lest you forget, the “bitch” has suddenly heard the familiar voice of this rider. Oh, she has remember him and now the time for the battle of the wills have begun.
“Sucks to be you” and “15, 16, 17 down” and “and you be number 18”
Mile 37.65 - (Approx.) - The sun’s heat can be felt all over Daryl’s body and he can feel the sweat forming on his forehead, and he is perspiring all over his body. No wind on the climb to cool him down or hinder his performance
Readers, let us digress for a bit before we continue on with Daryl’s climb.
Hill / Mountain climbing on a bike. There are many, many ways a rider can ride up a hill. Sitting down or standing up in the pedals. You can ride straight up or you can weave left and right on the road to the top. You can have perfect hill climbing form or you can look pathetic climbing up the hill. Yet, the common denominator is that all riders focus on the hill itself. Not a bad or good thing, but sometimes you need to take in the view around yourself. Remember that the hill is there, but do not let the hill/mountain take 100 percent of everything in your life.
Mile 37.70 - (Approx.) - Well, Daryl is looking in front of him, around the sides of him and was even able to look in back of him - twice. Riders were walking all around him, but two riders were behind him still on their bike. A solo rider on a tandem and the other on a road bike. Then, Daryl notices a woman weaving back and forth on the road in front of him
“Uh-oh looks like we got a cheater in the house”
Daryl knows it is not cheating, so to speak, but he needs to keep him thinking it is all about him. Daryl probably would be doing the same if was starting to struggle on the climb, but that is a probably. We readers will never know. Why Daryl thinks it is cheating is that Daryl is holding a straight line to the top while she gets the benefits to weave to the top and sit down for a moment. Life is not fair, so no skin off his back.
Mile 37.77 - (Approx.) - Suddenly, there is an odd thing in the stroke of his pedaling. He immediately thinks another rider is rubbing their tire against his tire.
“Hey?”
He looks to the left and right
“Watch where....?”
No one is rubbing their tire against his back tire. Then, not a second later it dawns what it is. The familiar rubbing is his brakes rubbing against his inner tube. Somehow the tire itself has not been properly tucked into the rim.
Then, the all too familiar sound of a blowout. A blowout sounds like a rifle shot.
“Well, ain’t that a bitch! Son of a bitch!!!!”
The rider to the immediate left of Daryl said
“What was that?”
Mile 37.78 - (Approx.) - Daryl did not answer him, but laughed short at himself while shaking his head in disgust. The top of the hill is almost in sight and Daryl can actually hear the “bitch” laughing now. Oh, Daryl laughed at the start of the hill, but the “bitch” is now laughing at the end of the hill.
A quick assessment of the his tires was made. The front tire was flat. At least the blow-out was not on the back tire. Daryl immediately calculated his options. Stop and fix tire. Stop and walk to the top. Or stay on the bike and continue to ride. Another parameter, he was going up the hill very slowly, which meant there will be almost none to minimal damage to the rim, The tire will have about twenty yards of damage.
“Fuck it”
He is not going to get off his bike and not going to let this “bitch” manhandle him.
Mile 37.79 - (Approx.) - Readers, you pretty well can guess the outcome of this battle. Daryl is still smiling and laughing at another victory in the mountains of New Mexico. With all the laughing and talking at the top of the hill among the bike riders, you can not hear the “bitch” scream in rage. With her giving him a blowout she thought she well-had her victory in hand. Little did she know that she picked the wrong cyclist to fuck with on this particular Sunday in May.
“I made it to the top - a-gain! This time with a flat tire!”
Mile 37.8 - Top of Heartbreak Hill - Jubilation. Time for Daryl to dismount and fix the blowout.
“Fuck me”
The blowout was worse than expected. The blowout was about four or five inches long and his patch is only about an inch long. His spare inner tube was back in Santa Fe.
Not many options were available for Daryl. Wait for a SAG support to show up, wait for someone to offer some help, or the option Daryl did not want to do - walk down HeartBreak Hill to the aid station at the bottom.
About fifteen minutes elapse while lingering at the top of the hill. He saw many things that morning he does not see often during a bike event. Riders of all abilities coming around the corner and crest of HeartBreak Hill. Most were walking, but an elite few were riding. Sounds of clapping and good job could be heard every so often. Some bike riders who did walk to the top of HeartBreak Hill had looks of disappointment. Daryl himself had a face like that five years ago and knows the inner turmoil that were currently going on behind those sunglasses of the bike riders being forced to walk their bike. Some other riders offer condolences and a job well done. Nothing else could be said, except there is always next year.
So much for “the biking gods”. Daryl is a seasoned rider and he has his usual traditions, however this morning in Santa Fe he forgot one very important tradition. Giving a nod to “the bike gods”. For he is obsequious. I guess “the biking gods” this day did not forget Daryl’s customary nod to them this morning before he started this Century ride.
Daryl had a decision to make and time was running out. He elected to walk to the aid station at the bottom of the hill. A nice walk, but the SAG support had not shown up in the past 30 minutes or so and time has now become of an essence
Walking down Heartbreak Hill Daryl witness something he has never seen before. Technically, all the riders he steadily past since the beginning of the Santa Fe Century were now catching up to him. Also, riders of all shape, color, abilities, and age are making the hill climb. Daryl had his blown inner tube in his left hand while in the right hand he had his bike’s handlebars guiding the bike down the hill. He saw a lot of riders looking at him, but offer no talk. Daryl saw pain on some faces, others brute concentration, and others with a smile.
One rider was even pushing another rider up the hill while she pedaled, laughing and thoroughly could care less whether or not she made the climb or not. This sight was humbling. We readers will never know the story about this woman. Was she a good rider? Was she about to give up? Who gave her probably the best moment on the Santa Fe Century that she will cherish for the rest of her life. The laughter and smile from her was of pure fun and joy. Other bike riders walking around this moment in time clapped and laughed and offered words of support. Tis the little things in life that may humble you
Daryl reaches the bottom of Heartbreak Hill and imagined that he could hear the “bitch” laughing quietly behind his back
Mile 37.50 - (Approx.) - An Army Humvee approaches Daryl and he flags the driver down. The New Mexico National Guard Soldier gets out and asks if he could help. Daryl asks if he has any tubes available. The guard shakes his head no. Daryl then asks if he could take him backwards to the Aid Station. He says not a problem.
Mile 37.3 - Heartbreak Hill - (Food Stop) - Once again back at the Aid Station. Well, no bike mechanic could be found. Apparently, the mechanic was already on the move to the next aid station. Daryl looked around and saw Heartbreak Hill again and shook his head in disbelief. He has to climb the “bitch” again.
“Twice?” “This is soo un-fucking-believable.”
Daryl started walking to a van near the entrance to the Aid Station. The van is the base of operations for the HAM radio. The HAM radio operator gives him a used tube, which is better than nothing.
Walking back to his bike another rider sitting in the back of a pick-up truck asks if everything is ok. Daryl holds up his left hand with the blown tube and the left hand with the used tube to be repatched. Smiling Daryl says
“everything is butter”
Then, the riders pulls out a box. A box with a brand new tube. Wow. Daryl accepts the tube, says thank you and then offers some money. The other rider shakes his head no and then says welcome to Daryl.
Installing the new tire he gets the first comments of his helmet from a couple of women sitting nearby.
“Is that Britney Spears on your helmet?” & “That is soo cool!” & “Awesome” & “look at that” & “look - he has Burt on his helmet too.”
Daryl just smiles at the two women riders. Daryl is once again center of attention and everything is once again right in the world. Well, let us say in Daryl's world"
Well, the aid station is fairly empty of bike riders and the crowd that was here before on his first stop at this aid station is nowhere to be seen. This is what it is to be last of the riders on the Santa Fe Century. These riders around him looked like they were just enjoying the ride and could less about time. Such the simple life.
Daryl left the aid station for the second time that morning and had another date to meet with the “bitch”. Again.
Mile 37.8 - Top of Heartbreak Hill - Daryl’s second ride up Heartbreak Hill was not as glorious as the first ride up. No one was really around to trash talk to. Never-the-less, he made the ride up HeartBreak Hill twice on this day.
Daryl still can not believe he actually had to ride up HeartBreak Hill twice. Twice. He often overhears from other riders joking about riding up the Hill twice and then laugh. Damn, I guess the joke was on Daryl this year. Twice. Yet, now he has bragging rights. Readers, bragging rights are what Daryl loves to earn and flaunt. He rode this “bitch” down twice in one day in the Santa Fe Century and that is something to brag about.
Leaving the top of Heartbreak Hill, he knows he left one pissed-off “bitch” and her wraith will be unfathomable if Daryl should show up again.
Now, the time to play catch up has begun. This is what it is all about in Daryl’s mind. Charging back to win from the back of the pack. Competition with the other riders, but most importantly competition with himself.
Mile 47.3 - Cedar Grove, New Mexico - (Food Stop) - Daryl did not even look at the aid station. He rode past the aid station as fast he could safely. Time was of the essence and this is the point Daryl has been looking forward to. The winds were blowing out of the West, due West. That was a good sign.
From Cedar Grove NM 344 route turns due South until the intersection of NM 472
Mile 49.2 - NM 344 / NM 472 - The bike riders were required to turn East. Daryl and Tracy have a straight run to the “town” of Stanley. The portion of the bike route is pretty level with no real elevation change and maybe three small elevated hills to cope with.
“I am IRONMAN”
With those immortal words Daryl “drops the hammer” once again and gets serious. Not just serious, but fucking serious.
After a little over 47 miles into the Santa Fe Century, Daryl has the energy still flowing through his body. Getting tight into his aerodynamic position and pedaling like his life depended on it, he felt something in him just come alive.
He thought about all those IronMan Hawaii shows he has watch throughout the past years on ABC. He knew what he saw in front of him and remembers what he wanted to do if he ever got the opportunity to mirror the Ironman Triathletes.
Daryl pretended there was a helicopter flying low to the North of him filming him cycling down the “Queen K” highway in Hawaii. The camera focused on him and he could hear the narrator saying that he was making his move on the “Queen K” highway and riding down every rider to get to the front of the field. His imaginary performance in the water was not very well and yet Daryl has come to the event that he his respected, revered and excels in. This is what it is all about. Cycling.
Daryl was in the lowest gear that was available and got those legs of his pumping like an oiled machine. There was no worry about lactic acid breakdown. No worry about getting tired before the next Aid Station. No worry about getting passed by another rider on this portion of the route. Every turn of the crank he pushed with such intensity that you would wonder why so much effort was being made by him.
Readers, already you have read that he loves passing bike riders on any mountain/hill climbs. Let’s be honest, he gets his energy, his strength and draws even more will from passing any bike riders on a mountain climb. Unfortunately, the “love” does not stop there. He draws more energy from passing any rider. Whether it be a hill climb, or just the flats. You could say just passing any rider casually would be fine. Not in his house. Daryl wants to be the one to past them like they were standing still, he wants to be the guy that the riders remember, talk about and maybe even say ...
“Damn, this guy passed us like we were standing still. This guy was going over 30 mph and not even breathing heard. Did you see the guy with the bull on the back of his jersey? That is a serious rider, but a very un-serious bike helmet. Who was that guy? Look at his legs. Wow. He’s a terror on that bike”
Daryl saw rider after rider on that stretch of NM 472. Each rider he saw in front of him made him ride so much harder and faster to ride them down in the New Mexico landscape. He saw some riders look back at him and Daryl wanted to believe they did not want him, this guy, to catch up to them. Such effort paid off that day for Daryl. Bike riders saw a preview of what has yet to come in Daryl’s life. Whether it will be this year or the next, they witnessed an Ironman.
Mile 57.0 - (Approx.) - With about four miles left on NM 472 he caught a rider with almost his same ability. No rest for the wicked Daryl thought. Daryl passed the rider gradually, then noticed out of the corner of his eye this rider has decided to slip right behind Daryl into his tailwind and use him a wind breaker. Daryl immediately found the strength to pedal even harder and faster, but somehow this guy was able to keep up.
Well, Daryl was going to make sure this guy earned his keep to drag in Daryl’s tailwind. No one, no one gets a free ride. So, together they rode down rider after rider during the last few miles of NM 472. Daryl slowed and in turn the other rider slowed, not wanting to pass Daryl. But after slowing down Daryl would immediately pick the pace up to a high intensity. Daryl thought to himself “Yeah, I guess we know who owns this stretch of road” Damn readers. Once again, he feels another surge of a job well done. To get drafted by another rider, is the ultimate compliment to Daryl. What that means in his book, you are the stronger rider. Sure Daryl would of liked to draft this rider, but then it would dropped his overall speed and time was a factor on NM 472. Remember readers, Daryl caught this rider, which means he was going faster than him. He was getting the benefits of saving his strength while Daryl did all the work in front. Daryl was honored. Honored to be Drafted.
Mile 61.6 - Stanley, New Mexico - (Food Stop) - Twenty-three fucking minutes later! Daryl has lived up to the title, the un-official title he gave himself at the beginning of this year - ICEMAN IRONMAN.
Not one single bike rider passed Daryl since leaving Mile 47.3, the Aid station in Cedar Grove.
“Thank you for the lift”
Daryl turns to his left and ‘lo and behold, the rider who was drafting him for about the last four miles. Daryl said you’re welcome. Any ill thoughts to him were forgotten. A “thank you” is sometimes all Daryl wants. A Thank you. No smoochies, no handshake, just those two words. Thank you.
“Hey, you got your tire fixed?
Daryl looked around and did not recognize the person, but apparently this guy knew Daryl and his dilemma back at HeartBreak Hill. As much as Daryl wanted to be the sarcastic, sum-bitch he is and say “No, I have been running with my bike the past twenty-four miles.” he’s elected to be cordial and just says
“Yes”
Daryl is nice, sometimes. Every once in a great while and in the least unimaginable moment. Hard to believe readers, but it is true.
As the riders catch their breath they can look to the North and see foothills of the Sangre de Cristo Mountains which basically indicates that Santa Fe is there. So far in the distance, the mileage seems far. All riders have forty miles left to ride and not really an easy forty. The next eighteen miles will be a so-so challenge. First, the riders begin with an eight mile stretch that gradually climbs in elevation. Noticeable, but non-threatening. After the eight miles the terrain starts to roll. Call them hogbacks or dikes, but up and down little hills until the town of Galisteo.
After spending about ten minutes at this aid station it was the time to head North like a migrating goose. While leaving this aid station Daryl had a flashback to a few ago when he left this aid station sick and literally exhausted. Luckily this time around he is healthy and ready to destroy any riders on his way to the next Aid Station in the town of Galisteo.
The winds were still blowing out of the west and the day was getting very warm. Rumblestrips were on the median of the highway and were already causing a serious change in Daryl’s mood. Every time Daryl had to pass a rider he had to cross the rumblestrips, which are not very fun to ride over on a bike, which is worst than driving over them with a car.
Mile 67.0 - (Approx.) - Daryl happened to look pretty far ahead of him to see how many riders he could see in front of him. He saw quite a few riders making the steady climb, but what he noticed for the first time was how much the wind was blowing out of the West. He saw almost all the riders in front of him sway to the right (East) as strong winds came and went. Daryl did not think about how strong the wind was, since the wind was not really playing a factor on this particular stretch of the route for him.
Mile 70.0 - (Approx.) - This is where the rolling hills start and do not end until the riders reach the town of Galisteo. This is also where the point of the century ride that riders will either be seen riding strong or struggling in the desolate New Mexico landscape.
Mile 73.0 - (Approx.) - Daryl thinks to himself about a lyric from a ZZ Top song. “I am shuffling through the Texas sand, but my head’s in Mississippi.” However, Daryl substitutes the word “Texas” with “New Mexico” and immediately feels reinvigorated. Nothing like ZZ Top to get him motivated.
“Haw Haw Haw”
If you readers do not know that lyric from a ZZ Top song, then take a listen to La Grange!
Mile 77.0 - (Approx.) - The point was reached where Daryl almost gave up on the course in 2001. Kinda eerie recalling that moment in time. How he had gotten back onto his bike gingerly and struggled with another rider to the town of Galisteo about two miles away.
However, on this day Daryl managed to ride strong past this point and redemption was almost here for failing three years ago.
Mile 79.3 - Galisteo, New Mexico - (Food Stop) - A historical marker explains there once was a pueblo here.
This also the town where the ATB route turnoff from Mile 17.6 ends and then continues to the finish line with the rest of the century riders.
The Aid station was packed with riders, but also nearby were riders waiting for SAG vehicles to take them back to Santa Fe. This Aid Station is sort of a way station for the beginning of riders SAGging to the finish line. The finish is a little over twenty miles, but after looking at the map and noticing the elevation change those twenty miles seems like a very tough twenty miles.
Readers, this part of the bike tour and moment is the hardest for Daryl to reminiscence about. In 2001, Daryl learned something he thought he knew about, but in reality he knew “shit” about - SAGging. As much as you new readers want to know what happened that day, please access previous years of the Santa Fe Century on what happened at this Aid Station in 2001.
Roughly twenty miles left to ride to Santa Fe and basically all uphill. Now, on this particular day the wind was now blowing out of the west and Northwest, which means a “nice” fucking headwind to ride into.
Daryl decided to head to the Gatorade table and replenish his water bottle and also get himself rehydrated. He also grabbed a couple of PB & J sandwiches and found a spot to sit and enjoy the quaint little town of Galisteo. He also noticed an ambulance parked nearby.
“Not today”
Just barely whispering those works. Today he is healthy and stronger than an ox.
A photographer took his picture while sitting and eating. A nearby rider commented on his helmet and how he has not seen a helmet like that for years. Then, this guy had the audacity to give him a history lesson about his helmet. “Who in the fuck does this guy think he is?” Daryl thought to himself. Sorry, readers, Daryl did nothing nor say anything to this guy. All Daryl said was
“The helmet is still legal and meets safety standards, otherwise I would not be riding in this event”
The other rider looked at Daryl for about five seconds and then got up and left shaking his head. So much for conversation.
Daryl finally finished his sandwich and decided it was time to go himself.
Mile 85.1 - (NM 41 / US 285) - The riders can practically “taste” Santa Fe, but ahead of them awaits a small, steep hill climb, then a steady climb to the next Aid Station at Eldorado.
Mile 86.5 - (Approx.) - Almost to the top of the small, steep hill climb and to the point of the bike tour where the official photographer awaits to take your picture.
Daryl was in the midst of just passing two riders when he saw the camera crew on the hill. He knew he had to put some distance between him and the two riders he just past. There is only room for him in his photograph.
“No rider number, due to them running out!” Daryl yelled
One guy yelled back
“Name?”
“Last name - Mr. Charley. C-h-a-r-l-e-y. Daryl. D-a-r-y-l”
Mile 86.5 - (Approx.) - Every rider can see the highway rise into the distance to where at the very end is the interstate, I-25, which is about five miles away.
Through out this portion of the route, Daryl sees SAG vehicles pass him by every now and then, full with riders and bikes.
Mile 92.6 - Eldorado, New Mexico - (Food Stop) - This bedroom community is named after the fabled “City of Gold” This is also the last Food Stop before the finish line.
Daryl did the exact same thing he did back in 2000. He made a straight b-line to the same Gas station he stopped at before and bought the same exact thing, yet this time around the cost was $ 1.35. Amazing how inflation increases after five years.
“Ahhhhhhhhh!”
Damn, the best fucking cold coke he had and will drink that day! Nothing like a coca-cola to quench a thirst. His thirst. Especially in the windy, dry heat of New Mexico.
Daryl completely ignores the Aid Station at Eldorado. He knows the Coke he just drank will suffice him to Santa Fe.
Mile 92.8 - (US 285 / I-25) - Turning directly into the headwind and onto the interstate Daryl has this century ride in his back pocket.
Mile 99.0 - (Exit 284) - This is the exit all riders must exit onto and leave I-25. Basically the riders have four to five miles left on the Santa Fe Century. The riders once again have entered the state capitol of New Mexico, Santa Fe.
Mile 102.0 - (Approx.) - Somehow, the “biking gods” were not finished with Daryl yet.
“God Damn ain’t this a bitch! You have got to be fucking kidding me right?!”
Daryl’s back tire was flat. Flat. With only about two miles to go and he gets a flat. Several ideas go through his head, but in the end he knew he had to fix the flat with his only remaining tire patch.
While fixing his flat tire, many riders he past on I-25 caught up to him. Some even said to each other.
“Boy that sucks getting a flat tire right before the finish line.” & “Tough luck”
In no time Daryl repairs his tire and hops onto his bike and actually hopes not to get another flat, because he has no more patches to fix another flat tire. He starts his sprint to the finish line and passes the other riders once again.
Mile 104.29 - (Finish Line) - 5:48:03 official time for a little over hundred miles. Sweat, red eyes, hoarse voice, but a big smile is on Daryl’s face. He has completed his first official bike tour of the year and it only gets better.
Oops - Tracy has also completed her first bike tour and also did her first hundred mile ride in one day.
Time for you readers to give them a big hand. The time for Daryl to “Shine” has begun.
Epilogue
This is the first biking journal for the year and this seemed so much more than I thought it would be. I never, ever thought that I would actually say I rode up HeartBreak Hill twice during this century ride. That is definitely bragging rights. Me, riding up HeartBreak Hill twice in one day! I also surpassed my expectations of myself for this century ride. I rode with such confidence. Also, my training from the beginning of the year definitely showed. Even after the blowout I had, which set me back an hour and a half , I rode hard to catch up to the riders who I knew were getting farther and farther ahead of me. I never worried about exerting too much energy. I had a mission and that was all the motivation I needed to ride like the winner I know I am.
Getting a flat tire with about two miles left was unbelievable. I have certain traditions I do before I begin a bike ride. I do not think them as strange, but I do have to respect what I call the “biking gods”. I did not do a certain tradition on this morning of the Santa Fe Century and I do think the “biking gods” noticed that I did not do. Therefore, I deserved the punishment they were going to deal out. You might think the tire blowout on Heartbreak Hill was my punishment from the “biking gods”, but hell no! It was that “bitch” - Heartbreak Hill. My punishment from the “biking gods” was getting a flat tire so close to the finish line. The “biking gods” knew this was a justifiable punishment for the tradition I did not do in the morning. Also, somehow “the biking gods” knew I had one tire patch left and if worse comes to worst, I would finish if they felt more punishment was needed in the last two miles of the Century ride. Whether riding on a flat tire or with me running with my bike to the finish line.
Author’s Note
The trash-talking I did during this Santa Fe Century is something I did not plan. I know I have this “trait” inside me, but for me to actually talk this way during a ride was something I never, ever imagined doing. I think it was confidence that I had built up in my training, which basically lead me to believe I earned the right to trash talk. What even made it more enjoyable was that I loved talking this way to the other riders I was passing. I know that I do have fun riding in any bike event, but this added a new twist to my riding. I drew strength from the trash talking I did on this ride - and you know what? I really did fucking love trash talking to the other riders.
Yet, readers something else played a factor in this century ride. The “Superiority Complex” I mentioned in my introduction. The “beast” inside me I think has been asleep for the past few years and then when I came to embrace the Superiority Complex, the beast woke up. I think I am going to be surprised on what lies ahead for me. Embracing a disadvantage may not be good, but I am going to find out. And yes readers, you will be able to read it about it later. Let us hope I do fair well.
I better clear up something too. The “bitch” I referred to in this bike journal. Sure, I used the word more than I should of, but that is how I see her - Heartbreak Hill. In life, I do not refer to women that way. Except, the ones that do earn that “title” This is my story and to keep true I have to write what and how I feel and see things through my eyes.
until the next time
w-i-t-h-u-t-m-o-s-t-s-i-n-c-e-r-i-t-y
Daryl
aka CalSeti
May 28, 2004
Denver, Colorado
Daryl Charley
The Fallen Athlete
