3 Gap vs Mountains in NC

Ok, I can not believe I did this, but I did it. The 3 Gap in Ga was not as hard as anticipated. I only did 38 miles for I started at the bottom of Neel's Gap for I thought I would only do it and coast back to the car. I also wanted to limit my miles. I can start 20 miles further which is what I will do next time to make it a total of 58 miles or try the gaps twice or add one gap. The 20 miles prior to the hills will add miles of course and make the hills seem more like climbs I am sure. Really had no intentions of doing three. I was nervous that I would not make it to my car because of fatigue or lack of food, water etc. I am really not ready for these type of rides especially 100 miles %$%# BSG, but you have to start somewhere and hope for the best.

A little about the ride for I know you are so interested in this. You can't sleep at night for you want to know what Phil is riding. Ok, I guess I will tell you. Check out map if you want to see what I am up against. Wolf Pen Gap was very steep (3.2) miles and Neel's Gap was very long ( 8 miles). I have to say these hills do not compare to anything that I have done in NC. I am impressed I did these three Gaps don't get me wrong, with the lack of riding I have under my belt since October. The down hill from Woody Gap was a blast. Your hands get tired of breaking, but one of the best downhills I have done since my Tahoe days. Woody Gap was a joke going up however. Not sure how Woody Gap is considered a Gap. I could not believe I was at the top when I reached it, for I had just started the climb so I thought. I am going to have to check the other three gaps for there are 6. I have heard the other 3 gaps are much tougher. I am pleased that I accomplished this route, but believe me when I say sawertown (spelling), pilot mountain, snake mountain and hanging rock are much much much much tougher. I never had to get off my saddle to pedal. I only did so when needed for comfort or sprint. I finished these three "hills" in 2 hours and 30 minutes. It took that long because of my picture taking and sight seeing over the valley, very breath taking. You do get a sense of accomplishment when looking at the valley and you are on your bike while everyone else is driving their cars looking at you like how did you get to the top. For me, I try not to forget that I really can do this and feel fortunate that I can. Enough of getting in touch with nature. This ride was just a confidence builder, which is what I need in so many aspects.