There’s nothing quite like a hill climb to remind you that gravity’s a bit of a jerk.
Yesterday was the 12ª Cronoescalada Pinturas Sergio de Cártama, which, in the local dialect, roughly translates to “let’s go uphill until someone cries.” That someone was nearly me. But not because I was slow—I was flying. Or at least I thought I was…
Too Hot,
I went out swinging. Not just swinging—over-swinging. Legs were like pistons, heart thumping like it owed me money. The plan was simple: burn every match. The execution? Well… I lit the bonfire a bit too early. By halfway, I was already negotiating with my quads, promising them snacks and early bedtime if they’d just keep pushing.
And The Result?
5th. Yep. Fifth. I know, I know—not exactly what I was gunning for. Especially considering this little stat nugget from my coach.:
Power Comparison:
- 2024: Respectable numbers. Let’s call them “training wheels” stats.
- 2025: A significant bump! Higher average watts, better pacing (well… sort of), and a noticeable drop in total time. By every measurable metric, I’d improved.
Except the one that counts.
5th again !!! Still, I’ll take “stronger and faster” any day. Silver linings and all that.
Heart Rate Drama? Oh, You Bet.
If heart rate could talk, mine would’ve filed a complaint. Sustained red zone. I could hear the Garmin whispering, “Are you sure about this?”
Yes, Garmin. I was. Probably.
“Can’t accuse me of sandbagging when my heart was one beat away from a Zoom call with the afterlife.”
The Bigger Picture: We Still Lead… Just
Here’s where it gets juicy. Despite not standing on the top step this time, I’m still leading the championship.
But—and it’s a tight but—it’s now by only 5 points. See the standings photo for proof (and for my stress levels).
It’s like the second episode of a juicy drama series. The rivalries are brewing, plot twists are already hitting, and the stakes are rising with every stage. Seven more rounds to go—plenty of time for redemption, revenge, and hopefully a few triumphant montages. Stay tuned, it’s getting good… 🍿
Takeaways?
Lesson One: Don’t start a hill climb like it’s a crit., it never ends well.
Lesson Two: Being stronger doesn’t always mean higher placings—this field is stacked.
Lesson Three: Fifth isn’t failure. It’s fuel.
And let’s be honest—it’s more fun when there’s a bit of a chase.
So it’s back to work. Back to the grind. The fire’s lit and I know what I want now more than ever.
As always a mahoosive thanks to all those people that make this happen, from the people who use the Link to buy me a coffee to the Title sponsors. Without you all, none of this would be possible.
“Pain is temporary, but this photo will haunt me forever.”
