Today, Forclaz won. For the first time, I turned left before reaching the summit. Turned 1.5 miles from the top. Was dizzy as hell from the heat and effort. Stopped and collected myself. Pressed on for another 1/2 kilometer felt like my head was gonna blow off. Turned the bike left and licked my wounds. Still recovering as I write this. The boys made it. I. Did. Not. Not my day. Tomorrow we ride again. Rest and recovery tonight. The mountain won today. It was beautiful and great fun until it wasn’t.
Life is hard, beautiful, and brief.
You don’t always get what you want even with great preparation and intention. Keep fighting. Keep working. Keep coming back. And, be smart. Know your limits. Test them. Admit when the mountain or competitor gets the best of you. The younger me would be seething right now. I am not. I’m grateful and glad I’ve learned when to say enough (or at least that’s the story I’m telling myself). See you tomorrow, friends. Thanks for listening to my sorriness.
Life is hard, beautiful, and brief.
Live hard. Love harder…
BUILT TO LEAD 
It’s so humbling to do hard things. Keep going and enjoy the journey.
Thanks, Jess. Kicked my ass today. Tomorrow we go again. Hope you’re well…
I’m more impressed than ever, not less. I’ve always imagined these climbs were really, really, REALLY hard. After reading this, now I know. You da Man in the arena!
Thanks, Browny. Got the best of me today. Will get after it tomorrow and see what we got. Talk soon…
Wasn’t expecting to read this, but so admire your willingness to do hard things. Keep on keeping on, my friend.
Thanks, Doscher. We will keep working. Someday you’re coming with me on this trip. Epic.