Karapoti and other adventures

So after that sweet training up north, we tackled the Karapoti Classic on Saturday. First time in my life, to see what to expect in three weeks when the race is on. Having a few drinks the night before wasn't a great decision, so getting up at 7 and getting ready was a wee bit hard. But after a nice Midnight Espresso Latte we drove to Upper Hutt and met up with Nick and Mark, two of Jan's mates, who joined us for the ride. Loved Mark's white fur covering his saddle, ride with style, ey?

But now to the Karapoti: Not expecting anything easy I was surprised about the first bit, which was fairly easy. But the first real climb was a killer. Bottom gear and picking lines were essentials, but some sections are better to push. Leaving Jan behind us, as his knee didn't feel like biking, we finally arrived at the Rockgarden, and descending with some pushing again. The last bit was sweet to ride, nice single track, and some tricky bits. But overall not too hard, so I was wating for the biggie to come.

And there we go, don't mess around with Devil's staircase. Pushing, carrying, pushing, some riding, a bit of everything. Actually the second devils' staircase I've been on, after the evil bit on the West Highland Way in Scotland named the same. A little bit of rest on top, and then a sweet downhill all the way to Doper's Creek. And then the last hill, bottom gear and iron will in my mind. And I managed to (almost) ride the climb as a whole, which was pretty hard work. Together with two girls we met on top we cruised down the rest, waiting for the challenge to end. All in all it was a great ride, thanks to Nick and Mark, who did gave me a ride back to town as well. Having it ridden now, I think the 4 hour mark should be possible, with some intensive training the next weeks. VIVA LA KARAPOTI.