Snake Creek Gap TT

 

Keeping the streak going!

22 years I have been participating in this race.  Driving down the morning of, I was dreading toeing the line.  It was cold (for me) at 30 degrees, and I had only ridden my bike 3 times this year. So I wasn't exactly feeling the bike fitness.  I had more running miles in my legs than cycling miles.  I thought of the gentleman who had run with a Strider bike one year and toyed with the notion of doing that, although where am I going to find a bike like that at 6 am?

The bus ride gave me plenty of time to fell just how unprepared I was for today.  Whatever mojo I may have have mustered was driven deeper into the depths of my psyche by Karen Carey.  She was filling both my ears with inadequacy, ineptitude, and despair. Had it not been for the fact that I would be unable to attend the March race, keeping my racing streak going, there was a good chance I would have bailed today.

After warming up by running around the parking lot, I made my way over to the starting line.  Lisa pointed out that my right shoe and pedal was covered in 💩 ... and human, at that😒. How fitting!

Fortunately, all that negativity left my soul once I saw my favorite peeps at the starting line:  Ray and Tammy Blevins managing the scoring table. 10 pedal strokes in to the race and Racing Carey (aka Taz) flung Karen Carey off the trail.  Jayden came by a few seconds later and I hopped aboard her wake.  I managed to hang onto her until halfway up the double track climb.  Not too shabby I must say.  

The legs felt surprisingly good at a comfortably hard pace and with the trail being in great shape save for loose baby heads, I made good time through the first half, only 5 minutes slower than my April 2025 time.

As I stopped to swap bottles at the SAG, Lisa rolled by.  I quickly hopped back on and slowly made my way up to her wheel.  At this point, I could care less about "racing," but having my best friend to share the second half and provide some stoke, was what I was craving.

I could tell I was struggling a bit in the last 7 miles.  I kind of felt like a pinball on the rocks.  I think it was more to do with rusty technical skills than a lack of fitness.  But the sun was out and I was truly in my happy place, despite my less than stellar performance.

Lisa and I popped out together on the pavement.  Knowing I had faster tires than her, I took the lead so she could tuck in. Still, I out rolled her and crossed the finish line well ahead of her.  But she had started 30 or so seconds behind me and ended up beating me by 2 seconds!  

Jayden ended up with a stellar time of 3:45, and first in the money class.  This kid is fast!

So, although the morning started out crappy, it ended up being a good day on the bike.  And the Snake Pit cooking crew were on fire!  Plenty of food for everyone to replenish their calories.  And some awesome schwag socks to boot!  I still have my pair from 10+ years ago.

Snake Creek Gap TT

The March edition was moved to April after high winds and storms were forecasted for March 15.  I was tickled pink that the race was rescheduled. For once in a long time, I felt ready to dig deep and go hard. Race temps were going to be 72-83 degrees, perfect for me.  My muscles just don't function as well when the temps dip below 50, and the sauna sessions I had been doing at my gym had me prepared for the heat.

Happy to have his company once again, John spent the night and then we drove down together to Dalton. Probably the one and only time I will wear a sleeveless jersey at The Snake, I was able to get in a proper warm up.  I lined up close to the front, as I wanted as clear a course ahead of me to hopefully work some magic and finally get a sub-4 hour time that has eluded me for 6 years.

As Kevin Crowe pulled up behind me, he said, "Ah, good, someone to pace me."  Taking that as a compliment, but knowing how strong he is, I figured he would pass me on the flat 2 mile lead out to the first double track climb of the day.  Sho' nuff, he did come around me and I could only hope that I might see him later on in the race.  

I knew that I needed to settle for the first half, keeping something in reserve, as well as keeping the engine from overheating.  I kept a comfortably hard pace up that first climb. When I entered the first single track, I was pleasantly surprised that trail fairies had blown the leaves off and removed the loose rock, making the trail highway fast! 

As I made my along the first half, I could feel the sun's intensity between the cloud breaks.  Fortunately there was a nice cool breeze, so I never felt hot.  I cruzed along, cleaning all the techy bits, save for that one little creek crossing that had two lines, both of which could potentially end disastrously for me, so I chose to dismount and jump over the higher line.  This did not sacrifice any time, but kept me from having to waste energy by hitting that grunty climb hard enough to clear the ditch on the bike.

Having raced The Snake a gazillion times, saving energy where I could would allow me to hit that last and most difficult single track section fast and efficiently.  So after gassing myself a bit during the harder parts of the first section, I would recover on the "flatter" sections by soft pedaling a minute or two before ramping it back up to tempo.

I cruised into the aid station at 1:43, slurped a gel, and grabbed my bottle of LMNT.  I was out of there in less than 30 seconds. I went at a steady endurance pace up that first climb.  Once I topped out, I picked it up and began focusing on "Slow is smooth, smooth is fast," mantra.  Being able to see the trail allowed me to pick the smoothest most efficient line and not bumble around wasting energy.

I caught sight of Kevin during one of the climbs just before the descent down to Swamp Creek.  Finally a carrot I could latch onto.  I caught up to him, he said something like, "You suck," which just fired me up more.  I did let him by on the descent, but then caught back up to him on the gravel climb.  As I passed him the final time, I told him that he shoulda followed his own advice back at the start line.

I entered the final single track at 2:41, giving me 1 hour 18 minutes to finish the last 10'ish miles.  It ... was ... gonna ... be ... close! I just kept envisioning a sub-4, which kept me focused, steady, and positive.  I felt great, I felt zen, I felt the flow!  I cleaned everything up to The Wall.  And The Wall was in the best shape ever.  If ever was the time to attempt a clean ride up this beast, now was it.  But, old and wise Carey was playing the long game.  Having never cleaned it during a race ( I have cleaned it twice in my life when JRA), I knew I would waste valuable time and energy trying to stroke my ego.  But I did a HAB FKT! 

Once at the top, I remounted and tried to push just a wee bit harder.  Once I got to the Dug Gap fire pit, I realized I was going to have to TT it to the finish as I had 22 minutes left.  So I gave it my all!  A few spots I ran it, knowing that was the faster way.  In races past, by this point, I felt like a pinball.  Not today, as I was in the groove!  I came upon two racers just as I was about to hit the "gunsight pass" section at the end.  They dismounted to walk; I yelled out, "I am going for it!"  They moved aside and cheered me on.  In the past, it was a 50/50 chance of making it.  Today, I had to clean it, and I DID!  From there, just another minute of suffering and I could enjoy the final descent.

In those final minutes, I super tucked when I could and pedaled when I needed to.  Sprinting to the finish, I passed through the arch in 3:58:03.  Hot damn!  Last time I had this fast of a time was 2019 with a 3:53. I attribute this to perfect weather, perfect conditions (what with a clear trail), stepping up my strength training this winter, and sauna sessions at the gym, and the wisdom I have gained over the 21 years of racing this beast. 

John had a PR and earned a buckle to be proud of.  This was the first time he has raced The Snake and he said on the ride home, quite possibly the last.  I give him a month to forget the pain.  And, he had raced the Waucheesi 90 last weekend in absolute horrid conditions (rainy and brrrr cold).  

Once again, thanks to NWGA SORBA for an amazing day playing bikes.  From the cool schwag to the volunteers at the aid station to the smorgasboard of post ride food and beverage, you guys have one of the best events in the SouthEast.  

Snake Creek Gap TT

 

📷:  Icon Media

Nine days into the flu and I thought it would be a good idea to race my bike.  I am going to feign ignorance on this one, as it has been 40+ years since I have had the flu.  And I thought I was feeling better on Friday.  With perhaps the best February weather in the history of The Snake, there was no way I was going to have FOMO.

Starting temp was 52 degrees.  It was so nice to wear only a kit and NOT be shivering.  My goal was to finish and ride the course as easy as possible, trying not to trigger a coughing fit at higher heart rates.  I started mid-pack.  I was gracious and let a lot of people past me.  I felt ok keeping my heart rate in the 130/140's. It was nice to have no pressure, and I took the time to chat with a few fellow racers along the first half of the course.  Tony Orru, a fellow RR'r, rode with me for awhile, until he had an issue with his bike.  Another fella, whose name I forget, mentioned that he reads my blog 😊.  And then there was Thom, who always is so positive and talkative.  I did apologize for not being as vocal as he, as I was just trying to breathe.

I rolled through the 1/2 way point in 1:53:15.  Not too bad, but the trail was in tip top shape.  And I had many small victories, by cleaning all of the techy bits on the first half.  The Mill Creek climb was a beast, but my mantra "slow is smooth, smooth is fast," kept me focused. As I got further along on the second half, I could tell that I was slowly dying, despite keeping on top of my nutrition.  Now it became a test of my stubbornness and grit. 

I grabbed a banana at the aid station, stuffed it in my pie hole, and motored on the last section of single track.  Trying to pedal, chew, and breathe while being sick, was quite the undertaking.  I finally choked the last bit of banana and was able to get the oxygen I needed.  

The new re-route along Vomit Hill was super spicy.  It was off-camber, loose and rocky, and with switchbacks that required a nose wheelie to maneuver around.  I played it safe and just got off my bike to make a couple of those.  I hope that with time, it will become better, as I think it is more sketch than the original route.

I ended up walking the final few climbs after the fire ring, as I was shelled! I ended up finishing in 4:33:10.  Not bad, as I was expecting a 5 to 5 1/2 hour day.  And I ended up with the fastest time in the 40+ category.  

Totally spent!

So what did I learn from this experience?  That the flu is no friggin' joke!  Perhaps I should have stayed home, but if you know me, I don't shy away from #doinghardthings.  BTW, I am currently on Day 17 of the flu and still have fatigue and a mild cough.  No doubt I extended the time it has had a grip on me by doing the Goggins Challenge and The Snake.  Oh, well ... it didn't kill me, so perhaps my immune system got a big boost out of it.  Here's to staying sick-free the remainder of 2025!

Kudos to Jayden Randall, who currently has the fastest women's time.  She flew by me in the first few miles, leaving me reeling in her wake!

Blaze, the Snake Eater, in his 8th year!

Snake Creek Gap TT - 34 Mile Race Report

Blaze, 6 years old and still crushin' it!

This year marks the 20th anniversary of this race.  It has taken on several evolutions since 2005, where it started out as a series of 5 races, starting at Dug Gap and finishing at Dry Creek. This year marks the last time there will be a 50 mile offering, and along with the BEST FEBRUARY weather since its inception, everyone showed up! 

I feel very fortunate to have competed every year.  While I have not raced every month of every year, based upon my record keeping, today will be the 46th time I have toe'd the line. While I have a few 50 mile buckles, I have opted to race the "meat and potatos" version since 2019. 

With a dry, fast course and temps starting in the 40's and peaking in the 60's, this would have been the day to go for a sub-4 hour.  However, I had just completed the Huracan the weekend before ... a 400 mile bike packing ITT in central Florida. So when I woke up that morning and my Garmin told me I had a training readiness score of 5 (out of 100) and Training Peaks said my Form was -35, I told myself to just go out, have fun, and enjoy being able to ride. Is a recovery ride even possible on The Snake 😂😂😂?

It was nice not to be shivering and having to do jumping jacks at the start to keep warm. I had a wool base layer and arm/leg warmers on, along with the chemical warmers in my shoes and gloves to keep my fingers and toes alive.

With the shuttle arriving just before 8 am, I was one of the last to go off.  Perfect, as I was in my own little bubble most of the day.  I didn't even let the fact that my Garmin would not acquire GPS satellites for the first 16 miles get to me.

While pedaling along before the bridge crossing, I did set a few goals since a sub-4 hour on the course was out of the question. They were to clean the entirety of the first half and not let Sierra catch me (she was racing the 50).

Once the climbing began, I was pleasantly surprised that I was able to get my heart rate up and that the legs didn't feel too too bad.  Granny was my best friend of the day and I definitely wore those teeth down on that 52 over the course.  

I did get annoyed slightly at a couple of riders that came upon me, not wanting to pass (as I asked), but intent on being "up my butt."  I am pretty sure there is no drafting benefit at 5.3 mph.  Eventually they either fell off their bike as I hit some steep sections at almost a "track-standing" pace, or they passed me as I took a breather before the next climb.

The Pine Needle Hill re-route was a nice change, eliminating the white knuckle descent, which I have a love/hate relationship with.  Although that descent is baller fun, it has almost taken me out a time or two.

I was indeed able to "clean" all of Horn Mountain, including the clay hill climb, which was dry!  Even the section of Pilcher's Pond, usually horsed up and muddy, was in primo shape.  I rolled down into the parking lot about the hour 2 mark and had the volunteers refill my CamelBak while I consumed a gel and removed my arm warmers. I wanna give a shout out to these ladies as they have been manning this aid station for as long as I can remember.  I bet they were happy for this weather, too!

After the 2 minute aid station stop, I slowly made my way up Middle Mountain, allowing my legs to come back to life.  As a strong woman passed by me towards the top, I thought that Sierra had caught up to me.  Fortunately it was the young speedster, Ava, so my goal of not getting passed by Sierra was still a possibility. Sasquatch scared the 💩 out of the person in front of me, which was good for a laugh. 

Once on the ridge, it was a pleasant roll and I believe I even had a tail wind.  The miles rolled on as I descended down to Swamp Creek and then made my way up Hurricane.  It was here that I experienced my low ... legs were done, or at least felt so.  

As I rounded the corner to begin the last single track section, I thanked the volunteers for being there and said out loud, "It's all downhill from here."  A good friend (John Switow) told me a few years back when we raced the Appalachian Journey, that if you can make it to the last 25 miles of an event, you can finish it.  So, for me, this section was my last "25 miles." 

Despite the fatigue monster on my back, I had a respectable ride and continued my personal challenge to ride as much of the technical bits as possible.  I surprised myself in a few sections and others, well, just couldn't manage to turn the pedals over. 

I finished with a time of 4:23:20.  Good enough for 2nd in the women over 40 class.  And both mini goals accomplished. Hats off to Lisa with a time of 4:08:17.  If the course is as good in March, I know she will be able to get her sub-4; me, too, hopefully.

This was definitely a 5-G kind of day:  grit, gristle, gumption, granny, gear! 

Snake Creek Gap TT -- 34 Mile

What a difference one month later makes.  Even though the starting temperature was 33 degrees, I was never once was cold.  The light rain the night before did not affect trail conditions.  The course was dry and fast.  "Fast" for Snake standards is still dauntingly tough; every year the rocks grow and the steeper sections get more blown out.  

I managed to get off the line a little after 8 am, thanking the volunteers for "turning the heat up" this month.  I would be more than happy to contribute to the heat bill next year, if they needed the funds for February, too.  There were still a couple puddles to dance around in the first two miles and I used the first climb to warm up the engine.  The first bit of single track was quite "sticky,"; lots of blow downs and smaller limbs to contend with.  Staying conservative, I dismounted for most of the log crossings; one thing I have not mastered is log hopping.

Cruising down the gravel moguls, I had a difficult time accessing my pocket for my gel flask.  Once I managed to get it, I then had to hold it in my mouth until the ensuing climb.  I got squirrely on the descent off Pine Needle Hill, but managed to save it.  The "horsed up" area around Pocket Road had improved significantly over last month.  I found the "secret passage" through the following creek crossing and kept my feet dry.

The Horn Mountain climb was no easier; this one is always a gut punch for me. I rolled down into the parking lot aid station in 1:59.  Only 9 minutes faster than last month ... hmmm.   And those 9 minutes were probably all due to improved course conditions.  I also noticed my heart rate never exceeded 150 on the climbs; well below what I am used to.  I did the same as last month, ditching the CamelBak, grabbing a bottle, and chugging a gel.

Middle Mountain was pleasant.  I had just ridden this section a few days ago with Honcho leading the way.  I imagined him and his floofy little pantalones just ahead of me as I ground my way up this 1.5 mile climb.

I cruised the descent, plowed through the creek crossings, and then began climbing up to the single track section.  I was tired but in my happy place and looking forward to challenging myself on the endless rock gardens for the umpteenth time.  I dropped my seat on the vomit hill descent and, at the bottome, when I hit the button to raise it ... nothing.  Grrrr!  All momentum was lost.  I stopped, removed my seat bag, uninstalled and then reinstalled the battery, and voila!  It worked again.  This was the second time this has happened to me with my AXS Reverb dropper.  I HAB'd up to a level spot and hopped back on.

I made short work of the remaining single track.  Well, not really, but was having so much fun on this last section, the cell towers were there before I knew it.  I finished up with an aero tuck down to the finish, riding through at 4:23.

My second half of the race went much better, shaving off 12 minutes from last month.  And feeling strong while doing it.  And this second half of the course wasn't much different than last month's in terms of conditions, so I gotta say it was my fitness that did it here.  At least that is what I am telling myself.

No other 40+ women showed up, so I took the W by default.  I wish more women would race The Snake, but it takes you wanting to go to the "hurt locker" to sign up for it.

Huge shout out to all the volunteers in making this happen, for the 19th year in a row.  There is so much "behind-the-scenes" work to make this happen.  It is no small feat and they give up a lot of their personal time, so that we can have fun for a few hours.  I am afraid that next year, the 20th, may be The Snake's last.  As much as I would love to continue to race this long into my 60's, if it is indeed the final one, I will shed some tears, but will continue to challenge myself on the "trail that bites!"

I also need to take a deep dive into my own health, as this inability to hit my heart rate at the higher end of my perceived efforts has me concerned.  I feel ok, initial bloodwork is normal, but my cardiovascular system has been "off" since December.  And then I got 2 respiratory infections, one the week before Christmas, and the other the week after my Florida bike-cation.  Could they be a factor still?  Time to get all "sciency". 

The Snake Creek Gap TT - 34 Mile

In its typical fashion, the February edition was brutally cold and sloppy.  Heavy rains in the week leading up to race day made me change my mind from resting and attempting a fast time to continuing a build week and treating the race as another day of training.  I knew I would be tired, but my goal was to stay warm and have a healthy mix of type 1 and 2 fun.

I wore ALL the layers for the 21 degree start, including my finger/hand saving SealSkinz electric gloves.  Although bulky, they kept my hands happy for the first half; I switched to HandUp Colder gloves and chemical inserts for the second half.  Although shifting/braking wasn't an issue with the SealSkinz, they were too bulky to pull nutrition out of my pockets, so I opted just to shotgun two gels at the start and rely on Skratch hydration for calories and fluids.  

The 2 mile gravel road lead-in to the climb was full of huge mud-holes, most of which had no ride arounds.  I managed to stay dry by tip-toeing around or riding slowly along the edge.  It probably cost me a few minutes, but I was happily warm and dry. Fortunately the 2 added sections of the temporary Dry Creek bridge made for a dry crossing; that was probably the most swollen I have seen Dry Creek.

Climbing up John's Mountain double track and on to the single track, I could feel the past week's strength training ... ouch.  Granny gear kept my legs' whining to a minimum. Fortunately most of this section was frozen. After crossing pocket road, the mud games began.  Pretty much, after the short initial climb, the next 2 miles were under water.  And I managed to submerge my left foot in the creek crossing. 

The Horn Mountain climb felt a mile longer; what a grind!  My derailleur froze, but luckily I had the three easiest gears to use.  Lord, those 3 kickers to the tippy top hurt!  I sailed down into the Snake Creek Gap parking lot and took my time swapping out gloves, sucking down 2 more gels, and ditching my CamelBak for a bottle.

The sun was out and the temps had risen into the 30's.  I never knew the 30's could feel so warm.  I ground my way up the Mill Creek climb and enjoyed the ridge riding.  It was finally warm enough that I tempted fate and used my dropper for the first time on the Swamp Creek descent.  Past memories of dropper issues in sub-freezing temperatures led me to stiff post the first 17.  It worked and popped back up when I asked ... whew! 

The creek crossings were super deep, but I was glad to have reconned them last month.  Knowing the smoothest and shallowest lines kept me from submerging my feet, again. The climb up to the final section of single track was not as bad as I expected. 

The final 8 miles of trail was its usual brutal self:  my favorite part!  Although slow going, I was in my happy place rock-crawling through the gardens.  I believe the rocks (and roots) are growing!  On the final tricky climb in the last half-mile or so, I was at the top when I ran out of gas and could not push over the final pedal stroke.  I tried to unclip, couldn't, and ended up going down off the trail a few feet.  Turtling around in the rocks, with my bike on top of me, it took me a few seconds to free my foot from the pedal.

Fortunately my bike never hit the ground; I took the full force of the impact.  Both the bike and my body were ok; just a bruised ego. I was able to recover enough to clean the "gunsight pass" section and then cruise down to the finish.

I finished in 4:46:08.  My second slowest time, but I did not mind.  I achieved my goals today: finishing with a smile.  And with fingers crossed that March will be its typical self:  warm and fast!

That smile is genuine! Is Ray checking for a motor?

Reflection

Tomorrow I will be racing The Snake Creek Gap Time Trials for the 19th year in a row.  I really have raced it close to 50 times as there have been anywhere from 2 to 5 opportunities each year to set your best time. 

I remember the first year, 2005.  I can't put a finger on how I found out about this race. Up until this point, I had only been on tame lap courses, racing cross country.  The Snake was where I first cut my teeth on rocky terrain. I was on my aluminum Specialized S-Works Epic, with 26" wheels, rim brakes, triple chainring, a squiggly SID fork, and a stiff post.  

The course was run in the opposite direction, starting at the gravel road on top on Dug Gap.  I was redlined from the git go.  I rode down "The Wall" white knuckling my skinny bar, pulling on the brake levers with all I had, belly on the saddle.  The finish was not at Dry Creek parking lot (it did not exist then), but where the Pinhoti crossed East Armuchee Road. Bodies piled up in the ditch along the road as we waited for enough of us to collect and be shuttled back in volunteers' pickup trucks.  I can still remember lying flat on my back looking at the blue sky, heart pumping and lungs gasping, trying to bring life back into my thrashed body.  My first coherent thoughts were A) that was F'ing hard! and B) sign me up for next month.

Even though the trail has remained virtually unchanged since then, each year has its own character.  Be it the weather, where I am on this journey of life, or what bike I am riding, this course is brutal and indifferent to you.  While we are timed against others, the true race is against the trail and our own inner demons.

Like February 2013, where there was no bridge at Dry Creek and it was thigh deep and 22 degrees. Somehow I managed to keep my legs dry with large animal OB sleeves.

February 2020 was the closest I came to ever having a DNF at this race.  I was so cold and so miserable at the 1/2 way point, I came up with half a dozen excuses to pull the plug.  But fortunately my good friend Dave was there, racing alongside and helped get my mind right.  Besides the conditions of the roads out of there looked a whole lot worse than just trudging on through the trail.

January 2008 I almost didn't even make it to the start.  I was on "that bus."  As I was riding the school bus over to the start, the driver got behind this slow poke Subaru on the descent off Dug Gap.  She lost air pressure to the brakes, almost plowed over the Subaru, but managed to save it by passing the Subaru on a blind curve.  We were all so fortunate no one was coming up the mountain as well as the drivers' mad skills.

March 2010 was my third fastest time, on a single speed, 3:27.  My second fastest time was March 2009, on my 26" Stumpjumper.  3:26, and just 13 minutes behind Willow Koerber.  March 2014 was my fastest time on my Niner Jet 9, 3:21.

I am not sure why the memories have flooded my thoughts, so much this year in particular. Perhaps it is because I have recently turned 27 for the 27th time.  And have been thinking about my own mortality ... alot. As I have gotten older, the days of the butterflies and the nervous poops are mostly gone.  But I still look forward to putting on that number and tackling the challenges that race day brings.  I feel grateful that I still have these opportunities to play bikes and push my limits.

So as long as the good folks of Northwest Georgia SORBA put on this race, and I am amongst the living, you will see me toeing the line.  This is one tradition I cannot break.

Snake Creek Gap TT (34 Mile) Race Report

18th year of racing The Snake

During the month of January, I began 3 big endeavors to start off my 2022 training with a bang.  I did a Whole 30 (no added sugar, no grains, no dairy, no legumes, no alcohol for 30 days), I entered a competition with my local gym from January 5 through February 4 where you could get points for certain actions you completed/accomplished, and I began the first month of structured training with my new coach, Mike Schultz.  I felt as fit as a fiddle the morning of The Snake.

So why was my mindset so shitty, as I was riding the shuttle to the start?  No butterflies or screaming eagles in my gut, just a sense of dread.  Like I was going to work on a Monday morning.  Two things, perhaps.  One being doubting myself, that despite all my preparation the past month, I was still going to "fail."  And the second being the fact that Charlie, my husband, was 9 days post open heart surgery, and while he was recovering at home with a sawed through sternum now held together by stainless steel wires, I was going to play bikes and have fun.  He gave me his blessing to race, but still I felt some sense of guilt.

I finally HTFU'd myself into giving my all and leaving it all on the trail ... the past two weeks of worry, frustration, anger, and guilt.  Like a cowboy rides the wildness out of a freshly broke mustang, I was going to ride all of these emotions right out of me.  Because if I was bleeding out of my eyeballs, I could not think about anything else, especially reality, if only for 4 hours.

The temperature at the start is ALWAYS the coldest place in Georgia.  30 stinkin' degrees.  It was 42 in Dalton where I got on the shuttle.  With no warm up, I could only imagine the barking my legs would do when it was go time.  But surprisingly as I blasted off the start pedaling like a character in a cartoon, my legs played nice.  I went as fast and hard as I could, wanting so desperately to warm up.  This was as close to "sparkly" as I have been since I cannot remember when.  Awesome.  My mindset pegged the positive side of the mental tachometer.

I caught up to Angie on the fire road climb.  We chatted a bit, although she did most of the talking as most of my focus was getting oxygen into the lungs.  I dialed it back a notch, as I needed to save every match for Dug Gap.  I slowly pulled away from her and eventually got a clear path ahead of me into the single track.  Riders were very respectful as I made my way around them.  The trail was in primo condition; no mud, great traction, and fast!

I was so so happy that the legs were on fire ... in a good way.  Having to reign myself back in was a good sign that I was reaping the benefit of last month's training.  Losing the chocolate bon bon butt and sugar baby Buddha gut also helped when hitting the climbs.

My friend from last month, Mr. SuperTuck, caught up to me on Horn Mountain.  He apologized once again for last month's little mishap, and we reminisced about it.  I let him and his friend around once at the top of the climb, as they were getting much too talkative.  They needed to motor on at a higher pace than mine.

The descent down to Snake Creep Gap parking lot was WAY funner this month.  With the leaves gone, it made for a cleaner and safer ride down at speed.  I rolled into the aid station 14 minutes faster than January.  And was still feeling great! I dropped my CamelBak, grabbed a bottle, took a caffeinated gel, and headed up Mill Creek Mountain.

Now, all I wanted was to catch a glimpse of Lisa.  I know she started before me, but not sure by how much.  She was the one to beat, and I was sure she was going to go sub-4. She was my carrot, but it is hard to push harder if you cannot see the carrot.

Swamp Creek was rideable, and the double track up to the Middle Mountain ridgeline was firm and fast.  I was feeling frisky and was able to repeatedly stand and hammer to the top.  Looking at my Garmin, I was hoping to hit the single track at 2 hours and 45 minutes.  That would leave me 1:15 to finish sub-4, which I thought was definitely doable.

I pushed as hard as I could on the final single track stretch.  But, lawdy! I could tell I was having a good ride as I was quite gassed on the steeper climbs.  I opted to hop off and hike hard on several, as I knew I would make better time.  Thank goodness for all the training runs, as it definitely paid off during the HAB's.  I was much more efficient and could save my legs for when the terrain flattened out.

Hitting the "gunsight pass" section, it was gonna be close to a sub-4.  I let it go on the double track descent to the pavement!  Stood and hammered up the pavement roller and then tucked in for a free fall descent down to the Snake Pit.  Came under the banner in a time of 4:03:25 (second half I was 17 minutes faster).  Now the waiting began.  I did see Lisa pedaling around the parking lot as I finished.  So I couldn't have been too far behind ... but was it enough?

I went to my truck and immediately called Charlie to check on him.  He was just fine, having had lunch, and was getting ready to nap.  Whew!  I was glad nothing bad happened in my absence. I was in a good space; all those emotions I was going through this morning were scattered over the rocks of the Pinhoti:  good riddance!

I cleaned up and then headed over to see the results.  Lisa came up to me and congratulated me.  I barely squeaked out the win.  I thought for sure she had a sub-4 and that it would be the time to beat.  I was super happy with my effort, having gone as hard as I could.  

Rescue Racers go 1, 2!

Another big shout out to the #snaketamer Jameson Keith.  At 10 years old, he earned the buckle and took 1 3/4 hours off his January time.  I am so so proud of this young man, who dug deep, entered the pain cave, and exited with a huge victory!

Jameson's drive inspires me.

The Snake Creek Gap TT Race Report

 

📷: Eric Henderson

Every year my mind is put through a gauntlet the day before the first race of The Snake.  Mainly because of the weather, as it is usually cold and wet.  And by my standards, cold is defined as a temperature below 50 degrees Fahrenheit (and that number seems to increase by 1 every year).  Why can I not just avoid these uncomfortable thoughts?  Because I do seem to survive it, as I have been racing the Snake for 17 years, ever since its inception.  I suppose it is because I still do have some high expectations of myself.  And with a new year brings uncertainty to how I will perform at my age.

Even though I have long since stopped trying to beat my PR (3:21), I feel compelled to at least beat last year's time.  As if this is a way to justify my existence as a racer. While I have learned over the years to let go of the need to compare myself, my fitness, my technical skills to others, I still want to compare myself to my former self.  In my 40's, I was climbing higher and higher on the fitness mountain and now I am riding the plateau.  And even though I know that one day I will be riding down off that plateau in terms of fitness and skill, I am still scared to death of that day will come sooner than I would like it to.

But back to the race.  My friend, Melissa, came over for her first "running."  She spent the night with me and we drove down to Dalton to hop on the shuttle for the ride to the start at Dry Creek. The bus was so warm I hated to get off, but the driver was gracious enough to allow me back on after I had collected my bike and registered.  Another 15 minutes of warmth, before heading back out into the cold (46 degrees).  I tried to stay warm by doing jumping jacks and air squats while waiting in line for the race to start at 8 am.  I was toward the front of the line, so I had a fairly clear trail ahead of me.  Fortunately I had dressed just right and once the gun went off, I was warm again.

The first two miles on the forest service road I rode conservatively, giving my legs ample time to warm up, as well as to negotiate the mud bogs safely.  The Bridge-Master had installed 1 or 2 more sections of the portable bridge, so I had a dry creek crossing of Dry Creek.  Yea to dry feet!  The climb up to the first section of single track was its usual sucky self and quite muddy through the corners.  I had decided to take it easy on the first half and see if I had a little more energy to negotiate the final 7 miles of tech on near Dug Gap.

Entering the single track, my legs felt fresh, but I held back and rode consistently.  Soon I heard Eric behind me and commend us ladies on our skills. Ladies?  I did not realize I had someone on my wheel.  Once the trail opened up, I asked if she wanted to pass.  As she did so, I was quite surprised as she looked very young!  I rode just behind her, wondering who she was, as I had never seen her before.  So smooth and so fast on the uphills, I was impressed!  She slowly pulled away from me, as we had to heave our bikes over this huge downed tree.  One of the few times I think it sucks being 5'5".  

As I was cresting the climb up to the fire road descent, I heard my name being shouted out from afar, "Go Carey Lowery, kill it!"  At that very moment, I didn't think I was the killer, as my pace was all about surviving this first half.  But it did give me a smile and a little bolster to my mental fortitude.  Thanks Eric!

Eric soon caught up to me on Pine Needle Hill, but did not seem too interested in passing.  Said he had been feeling a bit "off," the past week.  I asked if he wanted around on the descent to which he said no.  I then told him not to make fun of me on the downhill.  With eyes watering so bad from the cold wind, I descended half-blind, relying on memory and a prayer. As it leveled out, Eric passed me.  I secretly wished him a mechanical-less ride.  That poor guy ... he deserves one!

📷: Eric Henderson

I got my feet soaked at the second creek crossing.  I always take the little detour to the left, as it seems to be not as deep and a quicker way to negotiate the crossing.  However, just before I entered the water, a rock took my front wheel out from under me and almost kerplunked me into the creek.  I managed to land on my feet, in the water.  So be it for dry feet.  They did get cold but never completely froze, as the sun came out to play and turned a cold start into a wonderful mid-morning ride.  I didn't even complain about not being able to see sections of the trail for the bright rays raining down upon me.

I came upon Angie as I approached Horn Mountain.  Told her how we must be getting old as we were not racing our single speeds, like in years past.  The deep crevasse stymied her and she dismounted.  Having figured out the approach, even though it was getting deeper every year, I rode through it.  I ran up the short but muddy section after the water crossing, but then managed to ride everything else clean, including the short steep switchback. That first uphill is always an SOB, but I just shifted to granny and spun my way up.  The next three climbs on that mountain try to take your soul, but I was determined to clean them; almost did save for one short dismount when my derailleur decided to wrestle with a stick.

The remainder of the first half was a blur, as I just rode on autopilot to the SAG.  I hit the parking lot at 1:47, 2 minutes faster than last year.  Yes!  And with a lower perceived exertion for that first half, that gave me a confidence boost.  I was in/out like a NACAR driver, although I took a moment to talk to a volunteer who gave me words of encouragement. The initial climb up Middle Mountain was pleasant.  Still in my easy gear, I reigned myself in; I wanted to enjoy that last section of single track.  Back on autopilot, I enjoyed the trail even more, as it was dry on the ridges.  The descent down through the creeks was a little sketchy, what with the mud and deep water, the deepest I have seen them.  On the final double track climb, I could see the possibility of besting my 2020 time.  

As I hit the final stretch, I turned off autopilot and put it in Goggins mode.  As some of you might know, David Goggins is an retired Navy SEAL and now an accomplished endurance athlete, who is able to push limits like no other.  I embrace his 40% rule. I rode that last bit like a woman on fire!  I commended the two "kids" I passed while pushing up the Wall.  One, who was doing the 17 miler in a full face helmet and pushing a bike that was at least 75% of his weight.  He/she was probably only 10 years old.  The other, was the young girl who had passed me earlier in the first single track.  Her name was Brianna and she was only 15!  Very inspiring.  I gave her a few words of wisdom as I passed by.  Those kids inspired me to go all out on the last 4 miles.  My HR soared as I crushed the climbs, either by wheel or foot.  I had eagle-like focus on the descents and rode right up to my limits on them.  As I approached the rock garden where the bullhorn was, the lady behind it said it looked like I had done this before.  To which I replied, "Only a few hundred times!"  I cleaned the last rocky uphill between the two rock slabs, which has always been a 50/50 for me.  And rode the tower and paved descent like a rocket.

I came through the finish line at 4:03, 7 minutes faster than 2020.  Gave myself a big pat on the back and then joined in on the comradery with my friends at the finish.  Melissa had a good day as well ... and she was still my friend afterwards!  

While I may never again finish with a sub 4 on the 34, that doesn't mean I will quit trying. The only excuse I have now for not doing this race is death itself.  If I have to run that mental gauntlet every year, I will!  

Thank you to everyone who made this race happen!  Crazy that 250 + people were fired up this early in yet aother difficult Covid year to do a very difficult race. The stoke for an amazing 2021 is on!

Snake Creek Gap TT 34 Mile Race Report

I have never forgotten the pain of childbirth, but apparently I had forgotten the pain of the February 2013 edition ... 22 degrees at the start, riding through 2 feet of water at the Dry Creek crossing when there was no bridge, and the snow/ice that accumulated during the second half of the race.  Because here I was, lining up at the start, knowing it had rained 4 inches in the last 2 days and now was snowing flakes the size of chicken feathers.

DJ was in da house, so there was no way to bail from this one.  David had driven down from Ohio, with the snow in tow.  Since we were signed up for The Appalachian Journey in April, we both decided to race The Snake together.  With these conditions, it would be a true test of our abilities to ride as one.

My toes and fingers are my Achilles' heel when it comes to cold weather racing.  Because I have Reynaud's Disease, I put a set of chemical warmers in my shoes and duct taped them.  And in between two layers of gloves, I inserted 2 more sets of chemical warmers.  My core was quite toasty with my wool baselayer and thermal bibs.

Apparently I am gonna have to give David a lesson in poopin' in da woods, as I waited on him to use the restroom.  Meanwhile, all the 34 mile racers departed, leaving me to do deep squats and jumping jacks to stay warm.  We finally took off and soon came to realize that starting so late left us with a clear trail ahead.  We deftly dodged the mud holes, which had doubled/tripled in size compared to last month.

Approaching the bridge across Dry Creek, I noticed a handful of racers off to the side. Becoming a little nervous, I watched one roll up on the bridge and upon exiting it, being completely swallowed up by the creek (now river).  Before I could have any second thoughts, I hit the bridge with some speed.  F = ma was repeating in my head.  Unfortunately the m part of my equation is not enough to overcome the 2 1/2 foot depth of the creek on the far side.  I stalled out and both feet ended up in the drink.

Dry Creek not so dry after 4 inches of rain

Whelp, there went all hopes of my toes staying alive.  Pedaling up the watery fire road, my feet slowly froze and felt like blocks of concrete.  David was feeling good and so kept a spicy pace up to the single track.  Despite my poor toes, my core was warm and my spirits were still good.

The snow really started coming down as we hit the single track.  Soon, we began to pick up the end of the race and conservatively made our way around them.  Rolling down the fire road covered in snow, an ice cream headache attacked me with a vengeance.  Snowflakes began piling up on my glasses like a team of rugby players in a scrum.  Are you kidding me?!?  Now I couldn't see shit and my forehead felt like I had been hit with a hammer.  It was at this point, I knew it was gonna be a long and arduous day.

Even the climb up Pine Needle Hill could not rekindle the fire.  My core temp began to smolder, and my fingers froze.  I really need to design a pair of chemical warmers in the shape of a hand and that you can put on like a glove.  I fared the second creek crossing well, and slip n slided my way to the muddy HAB climb. During the four pitchy climbs along Horn Mountain,  my mental game began to slide away into the depths of hell. 

I was thinking of every way to pull the plug at the SAG:
          You don't have to prove anything to anyone.
          Better to DNF than to risk an injury.
          You are not going to improve on last month's time.
          Don't lose a finger or toe over a silly race.
          You don't want to do anymore damage to your bike's bearings.
          You have enough buckles.


Then a memory of Grace Ragland washed over me.  It was during the 2015 running of The Snake, when we rode together along this section where I was now wallowing in self pity.  Believe me, she was having a hard time of convincing me NOT to hop into a warm vehicle at the SAG stop.  But I could not get out of my mind how much she had suffered over the thousands of miles during the Tour Divide.  And here I was, with only 20 miles left.  She and the monkey on my back got into a WWE style wrestling match for a few miles.  But as Grace had done many times in her life, she booted that monkey off in the end.

2015 Edition of The Snake

As I pulled into the aid station, I told Grace I would tough out these next 17 miles.  But first, I stood by that heater to semi-thaw out my fingers and toes while the volunteers cleaned my glasses and filled up my bottle.  I ate a frozen banana and squeezed my flask of frozen gel until I was able to get a couple swallows of it.

David asked how I was doing, to which I could only respond with slurred speech.  I was too cold to even form words! He led the charge up Mill Creek Mountain.  I doggedly followed.  My bike felt so heavy on this climb.  I looked down to see nothing but a block of ice encasing my rear triangle, crank, and derailleur.  No wonder my shifting was less than optimal! 

The snowfall began to slow a bit.  I noticed that there were less tracks this half of the race.  Hmmm ... I suppose quite a few had bailed at the halfway point.  I didn't have to worry about line options because there was only one.  If you got off track, the snow would ball up on your tires and stop you dead in your tracks.

Funny, but the second half was surreal.  With 3 inches of snow, nothing looked familiar.  It didn't even seem like I was on The Snake. My thought processes were in slow motion due to me being so cold.  This must have been a protective measure on my body's part, because before I knew it I was descending down to Swamp Creek.  The road up to the last section of single track was a slog!  Now instead of snow on my glasses, I had red mud droplets.  I stopped at the aid station briefly for a bananasicle.  I had not drunk anything since the halfway point, so forced myself to take a few gulps.

About 2 miles into the single track, I began to feel my fingers again.  And I noticed that the snow was melting a little, what with big chunks of it falling from the trees and hitting me in the face and head.  I had plenty in the tank to propel me through the techy bits and the climbs, but the trail conditions began to deteriorate with the melting snow.  I ended up HAB'ing more than usual and then trying to clip back in with snow/ice/leaf debris packing into my cleats, well it made for some interesting expletive runs.  I began to say Larry the Cable Guy's famous words in my head, "Lord I apologize." That made me smile and the day began to get a little bit better.  With Grace in my heart and David offering words of encouragement, I could finally smell the barn. 

So happy to see that banner!

Today I definitely got my money's worth, with a finishing time of 5:00. Longest 34 mile Snake ever!  But I am grateful to have had DJ by my side the whole time.  I think we are gonna do aite come April.

         

Snake Creek Gap TT Race Report

Driving down to the start early in the morning, watching the rain beat down on the windshield, I could only laugh.  Heading into my 16th year of doing this race, I have seen all conditions, but mostly miserably cold and wet ones.  At least today the temperature was starting in the low 50's and supposed to stay that way.  I was racing the 34 miler, what I call the meat and potatoes of the 3 distances offered.

My shuttle arrived at the start later than I anticipated.  After checking in and getting ready, the start had begun.  I let most people go ahead of me, as I needed somewhat of a warm up so my body wouldn't implode in the first 10 minutes. A few minutes of squats, jumping jacks, and kick backs, I rolled off the line and down the fire road skirting around the edges of multiple mud holes.

I was behind a group of juniors and unfortunately one of them bobbled at the short steep V climb.  I  ended up dismounting and running up that climb.  Oye!  That got the heart rate up quickly!  I made my way around multiple racers, biding my time and trying not to burn any matches, as I knew my book was not full.

The bridge across the Dry Creek was submerged about one foot at the other end.  I unclipped and threw my feet up high as my front wheel hit the water.  I was only about 50% successful at keeping my feet dry.  The climb up to the first section of single track was in good shape considering the amount of rain it had gotten over the last 48 hours.  I continued to make my way around riders in an attempt to have a bubble around me once I entered the single track. 

The trail conditions were pretty sloppy and it felt like my wheels were being grabbed by a mud boggin' monster.  And then a noise began emanating from my front end.  I couldn't tell if it was my headset or fork, but it was annoying.  I ate and drank on the gravel road, hit Pine Hill with a vengeance, and then rode a dude's wheel off the backside.  I was a little grumbly about not going as fast as I wanted to, but it was my bad for not getting around him sooner.

I veered left at the next creek crossing, not knowing how deep the straight shot was and how much leaf and mud build up was on the far side of it.  This next section leading to the Horn Mountain climb, was obnoxiously muddy.  I felt like I was skiing more than riding. Aside from the mandatory mud wall climb, I was able to stay on the bike for the remainder, including the left handed switchback to begin the single track climb.

This section of the race has one big 1 mile climb, followed by 3 smaller, but steeper and more technical climbs.  Towards the top of the first climb, I heard a female voice behind me as I passed another racer.  Once I got around the guy in front of me, I asked her is she wanted around me.  "No ma'am," she replied.  I just got "ma'am 'ed!"  I took it as a sign of respect, rather than it being related to my age.  I got a chuckle out of how my first thought was, "Damn, do I look that old?"

She (I later found out her name ... Nicole) stuck to me like glue over the remaining miles.  I would pull away from her on the steeper, technical pitches and descents, but where the trail smoothed out a bit, she had the strength and fitness to reel me right back in.

At the SAG stop at Snake Creek Gap, I swapped bottles and downed a caffeinated gel.  I only drank 1/2 of a bottle that first 17 miles, a fail on my part.  While I was stopped, I saw Nicole go by.  That would be the last I would see of her until the finish.

I struggled up the Hurricane Mountain climb.  My fork was now beginning to feel AWFUL; stiff and like a pogo stick.  Once on top through some of the faster sections, I felt better and was able to stay on top of my gear.  The sun was beginning to shine and I could feel its warmth.  But as I began my descent down to the creek crossings, I was having a hard time seeing the trail for the sunshine.  I had a few "Oh, shit!" moments as I encountered a downed tree and some slippery turns, but managed to stay upright.  The multiple creek crossings all became just one big creek ride, as the water was flowing down the trail.

On the slip n slide climb up to the final single track, I came upon my team mate, Eric Henderson.  Off his bike with a broken derailleur and a rear flat, I asked him why he even had a derailleur.  His reply was that I had one.  To which I responded that I am old and earned one.  This light hearted joking conversation helped me to fend off the grumpies during the final stretch.  Because, at least I had a functioning bike.

By now, I had lost feeling in my water soaked feet.  This hindered me a bit through the rock gardens as it made proprioception difficult.  This, combined with a sick fork, functioning at only 25% capacity, had me doing a couple Yosemite Sam dances in my head.  Then I went into "adapt and overcome" mode and managed to surprise myself cleaning a couple sections I usually struggle with. 

The descent off Tower Road was heinous!  Huge ruts and exposed culverts probably made this the most tricky section of the course, as normally this was almost a brake-free section with lots of speed.  But today I had to baby it down.  Cruising down the road, I was happy with how my day went, given the conditions.

I finished in 4:10:20, by far not my fastest time, but right where I want to be this early in the season. I knew that my Big Dumb ride from earlier in the week might hinder my performance, but it was a risk I was willing to take.  I must be patient; fast will come later. 

One mistake I did make was not drinking enough.  Over the course of 4 hours, I had only taken in 32 ounces, along with 700 calories.  Although I did not feel "bonky,"  I am sure this under-fueling played a small part in my performance.  Rookie mistake.

Snake Creek Gap TT -- February Edition

I do believe Thomas Turner and I are the only members of the "Raced the Snake Every Year" Club. It has evolved over the years, from the first edition (2005) that was raced "backwards" from Dug Gap to Dry Creek to the addition of a 50 miler in 2016.  I am quite partial to the 34 miler, which is where I first cut my teeth on rocky technical terrain.

The February edition would be remembered by a Top 10 List, not necessarily in any particular order.

1.  The Polar Vortex was taking refuge at the Dry Creek parking lot.  Damn that wind was brutal!

2.  Realizing I forgot my DynaPlug on the bus ride to the start.  Like forgetting your driver's license: chances are you will not need it, but it makes you more cautious than you would want to be.

3.  Sitting next to Josh on the shuttle and listening to his friendly banter of nervous energy. 

4. It was nice to see that ALL of the bridge was above water.

5.  Seeing Angie Childre's tiny little cog on her bike as we were climbing up to the first section of single track and thinking she was in for a rough day.  So happy to be spinning a 23!

6.  Honcho calling out my alter ego's name, Carol, who is my favorite character on The Walking Dead.  Definite bad ass!

7.  Dismounting and leaping over the 29'r wheel-swallowing clay crevice, passing two dudes in the process.

8.  Having a friendly and encouraging exchange with a fellow racer as he was fast on the descents and I was a wee bit stronger on the climbs.

9.  Accomplishing my goal of a sub 4 hour finish and 1st SS overall.

10.  Spending the weekend with my stoke-tacular Rescue Racing team mates, Mark, Scott, and David.

Fifteen years of racing this tough as nails course.  If NWGA SORBA can continue this amazing event another 15 years, I will be there!

Snake Creek Gap TT Race Report

This year I opted to go back to the original, the meat of it all, the 34 miler.  After 3 years of racing the 50 mile edition, I was good.  The 34 has always been my favorite distance, but I did the 50 because that is where the $$$ were.  I also opted to ride single speed because of the simplicity and brutality of 1 gear.  2019 is the year of #doinghardthings in preparation for the Marji Gesick.  I also wouldn't have to worry about being in the wrong gear ... because you pretty much always are!

I definitely chose the right bike because The Snake lived up to its beastliness in that it was a mudfest!  Only 6 days into the new year and we are already an inch above average in precipitation!  The creeks and rivers were ragin'!  The starting temp hovered around 40 degrees.  My toes and fingers were toasty with the chemical warmers shoved in the gloves and shoes.  That didn't last long though as this was what the Armuchee Creek crossing looked like.

About 3 feet at its deepest where it is normally only about a foot.

At only a mile in, I hit this bridge and immediately everything below my knees were drenched.  Bye bye chemical heat!  Over the next 3 miles of climbing up to the first single track, my toes turned to frozen blocks of ice.

The first bit of single track is the closest I guess I'll be to experiencing a cross race.  Ribbons of thick mud made the climbs a lesson in body positioning and steady torque while the descents taught me to be light on the brakes and bars and steer with my hips.  The blinding ball of fire in the sky also made things interesting as well. I was grateful for the warmth it began to provide, but not too appreciative when I couldn't see the trail and just had to trust that my cat like reflexes would keep me upright.

Amazingly Pine Needle Hill and the descent and trail that followed all the way out to Pocket Road was in fairly decent shape.  I was able to recover a bit here and ready myself for the remaining single track to the Snake Creek Gap SAG.  Although it was only 5.5 miles to the SAG, I am sure I spun my wheels enough to get in at least another mile based upon wheel revolutions!  The mud was insane! And of course, all uphill!  I wisely chose to hop over the 29'r wheel deep creek ditch prior to the mud wall.  I probably was influenced by the racer up head that took a nice endo attempting to clear it.

As I began the first of several HAB (hike-a-bike) sections either through deep mud or the loose, steep pitches where I could not stay on top of my gear, I used this opportunity to drink and stay on top of my nutrition.  It is much easier to forget this valuable part of the plan when one is not all hot and sweaty.  Not only was I burning an insane amount of calories from the difficulty of the course, but I was having to keep the fire stoked to stay warm.  Remounting was a challenge as trying to clip back in to the pedals when you can't feel your feet is darn near impossible.  More than once a most sensitive part of my anatomy got sucker punched by the top tube.

I rolled into the Snake Creek Gap SAG at the 1:54 mark, quite a bit slower than years' past, but given the nature of the beast, I considered it a small victory.  Mike helped me get in and out in less than a minute.  While I swapped bottles and gel flasks, Mike cleaned the mud off my glasses.

Thank goodness the Mill Creek Mountain climb out of the parking lot was leaf and mud free.  This is hard enough in pristine conditions.  At 1.5 miles in length, I was gassed when I hit the top.  I managed to sit and pedal a wee bit as I waited for my heart to settle back down to a life-sustaining rate.  This ridge line was in great shape and my shot of Espresso gel finally kicked in.  As I began descending down to the multiple creek crossings, the trail became muddier and soon just turned into a small creek itself.  Not being able to see the bottom of these crossings, I was happy not to have "boofed" any.

The fire road climb up to the last single track section was an energy-sapping slog.  I still felt like I was making good time; I was thankful for the caffeine's ability to lower my perceived exertion.  I passed several guys who had just come completely apart.  At least I felt that I had a bit left to negotiate the rock gardens that lay ahead.

It was nice to finally have dry trail.  The traction was good and the first half seemed to pass by relatively quickly.  But after the wall, the death march began.  At least I had Single Speeder Sponge Bob to push me.  I call him this because he had a shoe that squeaked when he HAB'd.  We went back and forth over the remaining 4 miles.  He would get me on the descents and I would catch back up on the climbs. 

On the last pitchy climb, as I was walking my bike, a large stick somehow managed to wedge itself in my wheel, flip up, knock me in the right shin, and take me down.  Yep ... I crashed while walking.  That told me right there just how spent I was. 

Despite going down, I somehow managed to catch back up to Sponge Bob and make a slo-mo pass and slowly pull away from him.  I was hoping to ride his coat-tails down the pavement.  But alas, I was once again on my own, in a semi-Froome like tuck, trying to gain every bit of speed I could muster. 

Absolutely spent!

I came across the finish with a time of 4:16.  Quite a bit off my best time and 16 minutes slower than I anticipated, but still proud to have emptied the tank.  And having sunshine and 57 degrees of heat at the finish made all the suffering and discomfort worthwhile.  And seeing all my awesomely sweet team mates! Despite the rough conditions, Rescue Racing made a respectable representation with several that will be defending their podium spot come February.

Scott, the SS Slayer, Harper

Scott and David came down from Ohio to ruin their drive trains ... err, have fun in the mud.