>>> 9.06.03 - Old Kentucky Home Tour

Description: Century ride from Louisville to Bardstown, Kentucky
When: September, 2003
Distance: 102 miles
Elevation Gain: 5,000 (?)
Information: Louisville Bicycle Club - www.okht.org

Review: This was my first century ride and it was pretty brutal. I ate correctly leading up to the event but didn't get in as much cycling as I would have liked.

The first 30 miles or so is rolling and not bad. Soon after however, you start to wonder where all the hills are coming from. I was riding alone but attached to a group from the start. We left by 7am and kept a good pace. A little too good since we made it to the lunch stop before it was even set up.

The route takes you through some very rural areas and interesting towns. I rode most of my ride with one other person (Chris), also on his first century. I didn't have any trouble keeping a good pace until the 95-mile mark at the start of the Pottershop Road. Half way up the first hill both legs locked up and I had to hop off. I felt pretty defeated, but there's not much you can do. I hopped back on at the top and struggled through the last 5 miles.

I went back down a month or so later and defeated Pottershop, just because I had to. It is a very hilly ride, more so that one would expect. I couldn't believe all the climbing. It was a fun event and I look forward to the next one... I think.