Day 9 – Khancoban to Jindabyne 115km (3,100m vertical climbing!)
There had been significant build up and anticipation amongst the Peloton about day 2 in the mountains. Around 1,300km in the legs and day 9 had us tackling probably the hardest climb in Australia – Dead Horse Gap. As it was Saturday there was some small early crosses on Channel 7 but no school visits.
We gathered in the motel around 5.30am for breakfast in 2 degrees and it was clear we had just missed an earlier shower which had made the roads slick but also warmed things up a bit. Rolling out of Khancoban, it was short 2km ride before the climbing began on nice cold legs. The first climb was a lot harder than a lot had anticipated – around 15km and an average gradient of around 8%. There were numerous sections around 14% to boot just to make sure you were awake when you thought you’d got into a climbing rhythm. It took the best part of an hour and a half to climb and we had one big bogey in the bag. It was then a very cold and slick descent on some steep roads and after the climb, a lot of sweat to cool on you to make things worse. After some careful descending, we were over a number of rollers and then onto the big climb for the day.
Dead Horse Gap starts with a bang. The first 6 km is fairly consistently 12 to 20% gradient and the pain really sets in. It is relentless and there is no relief but this is what you have trained for and I’ve done the kms so I pace myself. My Achilles is in the hurt locker and my left one has gone now as well. Although I’m on drugs and have both ankles firmly taped, I did the climb in a lot of discomfort. All along the way I kept telling myself that this is nothing compared to what my cousin and one of my close friends has gone through so harden up. That morning, Geoff had got us stickers to put on our top tube so they could be visible up the climb – they simply said “Suck it up Princes. Kids don’t get to choose when they get chemo”. I couldn’t agree more so I soldiered on and found my mental state on the ride was very strong even though in parts of the climb, I was in a great deal of pain. I am now hobbling around as both feet have been given a fair bit of grief.
Given I’m a pretty strong climber, a few of us stayed together and made it over the top in good spirits. It was then a lightening descent down into Thredbo for lunch – one of my favourite little Alpine villages. Both Pelotons eventually rolled in – it was a tough climb for the weaker climbers and bigger units on bikes however they all took their time and paced their way in. We only had one “casuality” – one of the guys got hypothermia on the first climb and was in the wagon for the day. There are so many things to think about in the mountains and your own personal climate control is key – having enough layers and knowing when to pull them on and off. Eating and drinking is key too to avoid bonking but not having too much that you become sluggish.
After lunch, it was a fast paced Peloton into Jindabyne. I got on the front to help power the bunch as I was cold and wanted to ensure we got there in good time. A number of other guys came to the front for the same reason. Rolling into Jindy, we visited Woolworths, another key sponsor of TDC and also the Jindy CBA branch.
Tonight will be reasonably relaxed community dinner and a big sleep as we have an early start and it will be freezing in the morning (-5 is predicted). It is our finale day – Day 10 and we are aiming to hit Canberra mid afternoon – it is another solid ride – 185km and another 2,000m vertical.
I am really looking forward to seeing Lindy and Lucas. It is a shame “Squirt” wont be there however I will see him Monday. One thing about this trip is that it is very emotional with all the riders sharing their stories and the people we visit and listen to at our community events. It makes you long for your family and to also protect them. It is another reason I am on Tour de Cure.
First climb done
Keeping warm in Thredbo
Dave Curran at top of Dead Horse – he is a big lad and I am very impressed – not only did he grind it out, he helped another lady up the climb as well
Me at Thredbo
Arriving in Jindy
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