Cyclist’s journey: enduring the highs and lows of an extreme adventure

This interview captures the raw and unfiltered experience of a cyclist navigating a grueling endurance race. From breathtaking scenery to relentless climbs and unpredictable weather, the rider reflects on the physical and emotional rollercoaster of the journey. The highs are awe-inspiring, but the lows push them to their limits, testing their mental resilience and physical endurance.

Unpredictable weather and challenging climbs

The cyclist highlights the unpredictable weather as one of the most difficult aspects of the race. Heavy rain in the morning delayed their start, while cold temperatures—below 10 degrees Celsius—made descents especially challenging. One climb stood out as particularly grueling: a 15% gradient tackled in complete darkness. Fog compounded the difficulty, making the descent even slower than the climb due to the lack of visibility.

Despite these conditions, the rider found moments of beauty in the environment. They described the scenery as “beautiful,” with stunning views of rivers and cable cars adding a sense of wonder to the otherwise harsh ride. However, the rain, steep gradients, and unrelenting climbs tested their endurance over the course of several days.

The toll on body and mind

After several long days in the saddle, the cyclist candidly shared the physical toll of the race. Muscles and knees ached, and the rain-soaked conditions made recovery even harder. They also touched on the emotional impact of such a demanding event, describing the experience as a mix of “high highs and super low lows.”

The mental strain is clear, with moments of doubt creeping in, as the rider admitted, “I still don’t know why I’m here.” Yet, through the pain and exhaustion, the camaraderie and shared experiences with other participants helped to lift their spirits.

Friendship and camaraderie

The cyclist emphasized the importance of friendship during the race. They mentioned a fellow rider who supported them through the challenging conditions, ensuring they stayed motivated and looked after. The shared struggles of the event created a bond between participants, turning an isolating and grueling challenge into a shared adventure.

Moments of humor and lightheartedness punctuated the conversation, with the rider joking about running faster than they could bike on certain descents and sharing laughs over the rough terrain and cable car crossings.

Tough miles and relentless elevation

The day’s statistics highlight the extreme nature of the race:

• 67 miles (108 kilometers) covered.
• 8,700 feet (2,650 meters) of climbing.
• Several hours still ahead before the day’s end.

These numbers underscore the endurance required to tackle such a race. The gravel sections, though a relief from previous challenges, added another layer of complexity to the already arduous course.

Reflections on the adventure

The rider’s reflection is a mix of appreciation for the adventure and acknowledgment of the immense difficulty. They described the day as “hard” but “great,” highlighting the paradox of ultra-cycling: intense physical pain coupled with profound satisfaction and moments of joy. While the weather and terrain tested them, the camaraderie, stunning landscapes, and sense of accomplishment kept them going.

A journey of resilience and discovery

This story captures the essence of ultra-cycling: the push to endure extreme conditions, the camaraderie formed with fellow participants, and the thrill of discovering one’s limits. Despite the rain, fog, steep climbs, and long hours in the saddle, the cyclist’s reflections reveal the transformative nature of such an adventure. For those who dare to take on these challenges, the rewards are not just physical achievements but also deeper connections to the environment, others, and themselves.

Unforgettable moments from the 2017 edition

• Riding at extreme altitudes
  The sustained elevation of over 3,000 meters, with peaks of 4,700 meters, challenged riders’ lungs and legs like no other event.
• Unforgiving terrain
  Participants navigated rugged dirt roads, steep climbs, and remote paths that pushed their technical skills to the limit.
• Mechanical failures
  Equipment issues, such as failing electronic gears, underscored the importance of preparation and adaptability in ultra-cycling.
• A shared adventure
  The camaraderie among riders, forged in the face of immense challenges, was a highlight for many participants.

Looking ahead: the return to IncaDivide

For most riders, IncaDivide 2017 was not the end but the beginning of a deeper connection with ultra-cycling in extreme conditions. Many expressed a desire to return, better prepared and ready to tackle the race’s unique challenges. The lessons learned from this edition—whether related to equipment, strategy, or mental resilience—will undoubtedly fuel stronger performances in the future.

The IncaDivide continues to stand as a beacon for cyclists seeking the ultimate test of endurance and adventure. With its combination of stunning landscapes, grueling conditions, and the unparalleled challenge of high-altitude cycling, it promises an experience that is as rewarding as it is demanding. For those who dare to take it on, the race offers the chance to push their limits and discover their true potential.

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