The Leadville 100
Posted on May 8, 2009
OK, it’s time to write about the Grand Dame of American mountain bike ultras, the LT100. I guess I’ve been putting this one off because it hurts so much I don’t really want to think about it any more than necessary. This race, in a nutshell, is a bastard. Why do I despise it so much? Well, let me count the ways: First of all, it’s 100 miles, on a mountain bike. Second, it has over 12,000 ft of climbing. Third - and most importantly - it starts at 10,200 ft and pretty much goes up from there, topping out above treeline at 12,600 ft. For those not familiar with altitude like that, let me just say this: there ain’t much oxygen up there. Also, lest I forget, there are typical Colorado afternoon thunderstorms and occasional sleet or snow. The weather is very unpredictable and can play havoc with your race - no matter what your level of fitness or preparedness.
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