Conquering Big Red

by This is Carrie on April 15, 2010

This hill (which, I’m telling you, is far longer and steeper than my camera can seem to record in a photograph) is called “Big Red” and it’s been taunting me and my mountain bike for a few years now.

I had NEVER made it to the top of this hill. And it wasn’t for lack of trying.  The furthest I could ever get was that big green tree right in the middle. But then, a couple weeks ago, I did it.  I finally did it.

And that accomplishment, ranks right up there with some of my proudest moments…ever.  I think it was the tangible result of time spent practicing my bike handling skills combined with time spent endurance training….and all that pain… that made it feel SO GOOD.

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{ 8 comments }

Jana @ The Summer House April 15, 2010 at 4:14 pm

I’m impressed…my husband is a big mountain biker. I just don’t get it though. I’d rather go for a hike than sweat it up those hills. It is beautiful though. he just went on a 25 mile bike Ride for Rwanda this past weekend.

Jessi April 15, 2010 at 5:42 pm

I think I remember seeing this hill pictured on According to Kelly a while ago. I was stunned then and I am stunned now. And way impressed. Well done!

Paula April 15, 2010 at 6:38 pm

I bet the ride down was even better.

Allison April 15, 2010 at 7:47 pm

I think one of the most incredible feelings is setting a goal, working HARD for it, and then accomplishing it and doing it well. I’m trying to think of a duplicate feeling, but can’t. It’s wonderful to have a child, but they just kinda grow in you without you doing much (except eating). Well done. I applaud you.

Amy April 16, 2010 at 5:34 am

Great accomplishment. My husband mountain bikes and there is play where he loves to go. A number of years ago I attempted the Ridge trail. Granted I mostly walked it, but the fact that i even attempted it was a great feat. One of the guys that we road with made up a stupid excuse not to go and that made it even more of an accomplishment. There is also a road with a crazy long hill that doesn’t seem bad but it is tough especially if you are not as in shape as you would like to be. I attempted it and made it. (It was also a number of years ago)

elise April 16, 2010 at 6:16 am

oh my-lanta!
i can’t imagine. i took the kids in the trailer last night and could barely make it up one of the inclines in our neighborhood, hahaha.
your accomplishments are encouraging me big time! eventually i will get there:O)
Way to persevere, tough Mama!

KP April 16, 2010 at 9:31 pm

Next you are gonna look at half dome and wonder, can I make it up that ON MY BIKE? No really though, way to go. Now settle down!

kelly jo April 17, 2010 at 6:55 am

That is the best feeling!!! I had a similar hill when I started mountain biking that I had to climb to get to the best trails. It took 2 years to be able to get to the top without stopping, and now it’s a breeze (well, not quite!). Congrats to you, it literally makes you feel on top of the world!

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