March 1 Retiro, Colombia

 Today's ride was an out and back through La Ceja (the eyebrow) and up the La Union Climb. As much as I was wanting a rest day before the official tour, this was not to be. 34 miles with an elevation gain of 3,100 feet. The climbing is much more than I’m used to, this early in the season.  I’m  getting worried and I’m exhausted. Tommorow has almost twice the distance and elevation gain. We roll at 6:30 am. 

The ride though exposed me to a few interesting things. When descending and stuck behind a large truck, pay attention to its blinkers. When it's safe to pass, the truckers either flash their emergency lights or turn on the left blinker. Of course, when you see the blinker, you're not 100% sure that the truck isn't turning left, so you proceed with caution. The other observation was that everytime you see a fellow cyclist, they acknowledge you with a chirping whistle sound. Too bad I can't whistle..something else to work on!

On a positive note, the views and roads are fantastic. No broken glass. Drivers share the road. The descents are fun. Camaraderie is wonderful. Food and service are fantastic. Only issue was Mike getting targeted by a pigeon as we watched Jose buying a custom fitted belt from a street vendor.

Cresting the La Union Climb




Left to right Manolo, me, Mike, Orlando, Jose Jairo




Parking our bikes for a lunch break

lunch break in la Ceja


Descending 

Diego leading the way back

A local rider's trophy collection



Enjoying a well deserved meal (back at M and M)



Pigeon attack




to drink like an old tv, with no control



Evening stroll in El Retiro


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