Celebrating women in cycling and Gruppo Le Donne (GLD) ride

Yesterday was a day filled of celebrating women's riding. Fellow B4T9'ers, Jill and Fran, set off for Race Across the West (RAW), an 850 mile race starting in Oceanside CA and ending in Durango CO. Their goal is to complete it under 55 hours. Jill and Fran are my inspiration both on and off the bike.  They posses the mental strength and endurance to succeed with this type of race.


Jill and Fran at the RAW send-off in Oceanside.



Just as important as the racers, the support crew  plays a critical role in the race. RaeLynn and Sandi (B4T9 teammates) show off  their excitement with their big smiles. Jill and Fran are in good hands with the support crew of six including another B4T9 sister, Kelly.

 

RAW is part of the Ride Across America (RAAM) organization. Jill completed RAAM in 2010 on a 4 woman team recording a record for the event. Jill has been my coach since October 2011.  Not only does she rock on the bike, she has a heart of gold. Check out her website: http://www.revolutioncoaching.com/.

Jill taking off for RAW.

Wednesday the Gruppo Le Donne (GLD) ride started from Hygeia. Major Judy (a.k.a. Chrissie) joined me for a truly easy recovery ride up the coast. We had a fun time catching up on life that included topics on careers, relationships and cycling. Regardless of the type of ride, Major Judy, always makes me work.

Check out the route:


We had a beautiful view of the Del Mar Fair on our way home. A must stop to snap a picture.

One of the fun parts of the GLD ride is the post ride dinner. We checked out the Birdhouse, a local turkish cuisine restaurant and found a treasure. We enjoyed the fava bean dip and the gyro salad/sandwich. Next time we are taking our own bottle of wine.

Great day of watching the B4T9 team & support crew take off for RAW and ended with a fun evening ride with Major. Now time to prep for Saturday's race - Jailhouse criterium up at Castaic Lake.