My Sixth and Seventh Whistler Gran Fondo
I’ve done the Whislter Gran Fondo a few times (first, second, third, fourth and fifth). This week I completed my seventh Whistler Gran Fondo and realised I didn’t write about last years. So here goes.
Sixth Gran Fondo (2022)
I didn’t train enough, I was in bad shape. There was a headwind, just a horrible headwind the whole way. That’s all I can remember. I couldn’t get many drafts, you had to pedal going downhill otherwise you couldn’t get any speed.
Within the first hour, I knew I had no chance of beating my times, so I tried to relax. Mostly I just got stressed and tired.
At the end of the ride I said that’s it, I didn’t enjoy it I won’t do it again. Then my daughter signed up to do it next year. I signed up to support her.
Seventh Gran Fondo (2023)
Coming into this ride I’d probably done less cycling than ever.
| 2017 (up to Fondo) | 2018 (up to Fondo) | 2019 (up to Fondo) | 2023 (up to Fondo) | |
| Time | 243h | 232h 16m | 165h 51m | 55h 48m |
| Distance | 5,050km | 5,279km | 3,889km | 1,221km |
| Rides | 198 | 136 | 75 | 40 |
It’s quite remarkable how little cycling I’ve done compared to previous years. I’ve been focusing on hiking, backpacking and bit of running throughout the summer. A prolonged period of illness (6+ weeks) at the beginning of the season and not participating in Steed ride club has had a big effect.
I’d already approached this Fondo as I ride I would take slow and easy, enjoying the ride and supporting my daughter. Then my daughter decided not to ride.
So I chilled and enjoyed the ride. Unlike last year, going into it with that mentality from the start, I actually did find the ride enjoyable. Fantastic views, great people.
Not too fussed about the time and didn’t sign up for next year. Not sure if I’ll ride it again.
I also needed to try and keep my body intact because next week I’ve got this race and I’m excited and nervous about this, the way I used to be about the Whistler Fondo.