Headed back to the old Grand Loop in a few days, 360 self supported miles through Western Colorado and Eastern Utah. Route almost killed me in 2006, it was my first bikepacking race and it was so hot, there was no GPS track and I carried 100% of my calories, heavy pack! I got worked out there, it was hard, but I learned so much and fell for this crazy pursuit. Went back with a few folks in 2009 and the route was amazing, I was much better prepared, didn’t get lost that much, and it was cooler and actually a bit wet. I felt so much faster without all the mistakes and was able to appreciate the beauty out there. 2009 was so amazing and yet I still haven’t been back, well I seem to remember that the Grand Loop is also a wicked, mean ass kicker.

Well some crazy soul is bringing the event back, and how could I say no? Well lots of reasons, but the chance to race so close to home on such an iconic route is hard to pass up. I got the bike set, the gear sorted and packed, a good bit of my food is packed and I have done a bit of route study. My stuff is ready to go. The rider may not be as sorted and prepared as my check lists may indicate, more like a check light going off. Life is full of a wild child, a wild dog, a busy wife, and a house and yard. After 4 years I am still amazed at the energy it takes to keep up with all that, most weeks I am so busy with all the things I don’t take the best care of myself. Been trying to do a little less rather than force more, so I have been not riding that much. I still feel such a strong pull to get out there and see what I can do, so ready or not here I come!

Folks can follow along: http://trackleaders.com/grandloop23