Temecula Velo's Borrego Springs Double Century Training Ride - May 4, 2013

Temecula Velo members, Roland von Kriegenbergh, George Niotta, Mary Diaz, Doug Joseph, Matt Hughes, Mark Mitchell, Lorie McCormick, Hellen Do, Joel Jankowski, Tom Ray, Paul Cornish and soon to be member Dave set out this morning to do a training ride in preparation for the Borrego Springs Double Century on May 25th.  While it was only 72 miles, it had over 6200 feet of climbing and lots of headwind.  The first part of the ride was fast with lots of quick downhill turns.  About an hour into the ride, it started to get warm as we headed into Borrego Spring.  We stopped briefly for water, gatorade, ice and snacks before starting the climb up Montezuma Valley Road.  We passed some beautiful iron statutes along this section that still appeared small against the desert background.  As we proceeded to climb Montezuma, Paul's chain broke and flew off onto the road.  The Velo peeps helped to get Paul back on the road (thankful for any excuse at that point to take a break).  The climb up Montezuma (approximately 12 miles) proved, long and hot with plenty of headwind.  After what seemed like a lifetime, we stopped at a small general store guarded by a tall white Yettie (can someone please tell me what a Yettie is!)  We got some good conversation from the locals and then continued on for the remaining 40 miles to Julian.  The last seven miles of the ride where climbing which seemed to go on for an eternity.  Finally, we were back in Julian and treated ourselves to some of that famous pie from Mom's.  What a ride with some Velo peeps that can also be considered LOCO!  P.S. For some reason everytime we hang out with Roland we end up doing something crazy!!!! Great climbing today Velo!