Tour of CA

Yesterday we headed down to the final stage of the Tour of CA. Hoping to see some action we went to the top of Cole Grade – the last climb of the day – a super tough 3 mile 9-10 percent grade. I don’t know why this climb wasn’t on the Versus pm coverage because it is a beast. The number of spectators lining the entire climb was amazing and once the Livestrong van went by handing out sidewalk chalk everyone went crazy marking up the road. Schleck and Nabili powered by first on the climb at a pace that seemed awfully fast for the steep grade. I was able to verify they were in the little ring though. Then the chase group came by with Lance and Levi on the front, and about 10 follow cars for the teams represented in the front group. You literally have to watch your toes when the riders, motos and cars go by. The huge number of recreational cyclists and even non-cyclists that were out watching was awesome. We figured driving out would be a little slow since the roads are about 30min from the nearest major freeway. But it took 2 hrs to go 25 miles! Basically in the middle of nowhere on a 2 lane road we sat in bumper to bumper traffic with all the Palomar and Cole Grade spectators. Vive California! Obviously the whole race has been an awesome boost for racing here in the US and we should all look forward to next year.

Rock Racing on Cole Grade

Lead group with Lance and Levi on front

Spectating doesn't last long

Getting close to follow cars