This is a self-supported ride event, but as I noted before, we will have a SAG Wagon along for various needs.
July 2nd - Coalville to Park City. Start at 8:00 a.m. This is the ride which will start at the LDS Church parking lot in Coalville. We will ride South, through Francis and turn west toward Heber and Midway. Once we hit Midway we will head up Empire Pass for the 7.5 mile climb and descend into Park City. Total mileage will be approximately 55 to 60.
July 3rd - Alpine Loop. Start at 9:00 a.m. I've adjusted this ride so we don't have to do two major climbs that would be rather difficult on the day after Empire. We will start at the top of the Draper/Suncrest pass and drop down into Alpine and begin the climb through the loop road and descend into Provo Canyon and up the South Fork spur canyon to the South Fork Park. Total mileage will be approximately 40 to 45.
I note here that there is always the chance of inclement weather. I plan to be really flexible in terms of locations, lengths, and start times for these rides if we encounter issues like high winds, rain, etc.
Now, lets talk about training. Personally I don't want to be in "suffer" mode the entire ride. I'm ok with a few short stints in that realm, but if I want to avoid endless misery I need to get on the bike and put in some miles. I'm no road cycling expert by any means but I've found that, for me, training not only helps develop strong legs and endurance, but it helps me find and develop mental fortitude required to complete these kind of rides. Mental attitude is just as (or more) important than physical training.
I could go on and on about what I plan to do to get ready for this event, or what you could/should do. But what works for me probably won't work for you. So I've found a few good video clips that may point you in the right direction and get you started.
Just FYI, the GCN Road Cycling videos (of which there are hundreds) are packed with great info. But they are also extremely funny, in a British-y subtle humor sort of way. Enjoy.
