The Beast

In six weeks I have a date with 'the beast'. If you do triathlon long enough you hear revered speak of this hill.  This year, being the year of challenges seemed like the year to make an appointment with THE BEAST. I have done some research on this hill, because who wants to go on a blind date? What I have learned is that the hill is 7/10 of a mile with 600ft change in elevation with grades between 14 and 21%. Not really sure what this means since I describe hills a little differently. My high tech descriptions are more like steep, holy crap, walk. Where this fits in I am not sure, from the picture I found I think it might be between the last two. (Hey Jen, you know that triple front ring I made fun of you having? Is it still around?)

The Beast 

Looking at this picture, I can't help but notice the beauty. Looks like I will miss the views while climbing which is a shame. For those that know me well, I promise not to stop and admire the view during the race - really I won't. In preparation for my date, I spent some time on a local hill today doing hill repeats. 

Sign at top 

I am proud to say I made all the repeats without paper boying, so I guess in my hill classification system this hill is steep. During my time to and from the hill I was able to practice my track stands at red lights. I only put my foot down twice, and yes The Todd, I had more than two red lights. I figure, I may be going so slow up the beast that being able to balance on the bike at a complete stop is necessary! 

One of the benefits of the winter rains

Climbing today I was admiring the views and the wildflowers so much I almost didn't notice how badly my legs and lungs were burning. I plan to focus on the beauty around me during the race instead of the beast. Pretty sure the beauty will last for more than 7/10's of a mile.