The La Tourist Race race is no ordinary cycling event. The challenge begins days in advance when participants receive 6 GPS coordinates leading to strategically placed books. The mission? To map the fastest route to all six locations. Our task was clear – plot our course, navigate the streets, and collect the book pages.

For me, the night before the race was a cocktail of nerves and excitement. As I scrolled through Instagram stories showcasing the intensity of past races, anxiety about being clipped into my gravel bike pedals crept in. To ease my nerves, Justin and I walked through our planned route on Friday night, mapping it out on my Strava before calling it a night.

Chapter 1: Early Morning Jitters and Fueling for the Journey

The Friday night anxiety lingered into the early hours of Saturday morning. Justin, the early riser, hit the weights at 4 am, a pre-ride routine and I joined the awakening world at 5 am, and by 6:30 am, we were packed and en route, eager to arrive by 7 am. The goal was simple – tackle the unknown, conquer our 3 checkpoints, and enjoy the ride.

Our backpacks loaded with homemade oat balls (link coming soon), sourdough PB&Js, turkey meatball sandwiches with cilantro sauce (link coming soon), and my absolute favorite, Trader Joe’s Gummy Bears. Camel backpacks filled with water and Trader Joe’s gingery ginger soda provided the fuel needed for a day from 7 am to sundown. We wanted to ensure we had enough energy for the journey that awaited us.

Chapter 2: Bike Fitting and the Start Line Buzz

Upon arrival, our focus shifted to bike fitting, ensuring our trusty companions were ready for the journey ahead. The start line beckoned, accompanied by the enticing aroma of coffee and donuts. As we indulged in these pre-race treats, the buzz of excitement mingled with a hint of nervous anticipation.

Chapter 3: The Unforeseen Challenges and Triumphs

The race kicked off smoothly, the sun casting a warm glow on a beautiful day. However, what awaited us exceeded expectations. Unanticipated climbs dominated the landscape, challenging both our physical and mental resilience. Tricky coordinates added a layer of complexity, resulting in a 3-hour quest to find our first checkpoint, with a modest 3/6 in mind.

Encounters with fellow racers, the discovery of hidden checkpoints, and the sense of camaraderie kept our spirits high. Yet, the intensity of the climbs tested our resolve. At times, doubt crept in, but focusing on positivity and leaning on Justin’s unwavering support became the keys to overcoming mental barriers. We secured 2 checkpoints, recognizing the need to return before sunset.

Chapter 4: Gear of the Day – Stylish and Practical

As for our gear, I donned a combination of functionality and style. Clad in my go-to biking ensemble, I rode my State Bicycle gravel bike with a bike bib from Sweaty Betty. The pièce de résistance, my beloved Oakley Sutro sunglasses, shielding my eyes from the California sun. Comfort and performance were paramount, ensuring I could tackle the unexpected challenges the race had in store.

Conclusion: Lessons Learned and Future Adventures

While the race brought unexpected challenges, the triumphs and camaraderie made it a memorable experience. The intensity of the climbs, the mental battles, and the breathtaking scenery painted a picture of resilience and determination. As the sun set on our 2/6 victory, thoughts of doing it differently next time already danced in our minds. Who’s in for the next one?

Check out full race recap video here.