Carrabassett 50K

I was fortunate to have a clear calendar this summer to do the Carrabassett Backcountry Cycle Challenge. I've done the 50k version of this race several years in a row now, to the point where it's becoming a summer ritual.

This year I made a concerted effort to get a hole shot and push the pace early. I went out fast, got in what seemed to be a lead group, and I was feeling strong, if not on the brink.

Unfortunately, at around mile 20 my rear derailleur took a hit on the descent from trail 50 which proved to be my undoing. Without the ability to pedal or shift I scootered the bike back on Route 27. Fortunately, a teammate's wife happened to be driving by, picked me up, and dropped me off at the Start.

I like to think I would've kept the pace up and finished strong, but I'll never know for sure. I'll have to redeem myself next year.