Embarking on an ultra-cycling adventure is a true test of strength, determination, and resilience. Race Around Denmark, a self-supported 1600 km race that began as a Race Across America qualifier event, offers participants an opportunity to push their limits and explore the beautiful Danish landscape. In this blog post, I will share my personal journey through the rolling hills of Denmark, braving the biting cold, navigating train connections, and ultimately triumphing at the finish line.
The Unforgiving Terrain and the Unexpected Cold: Race Around Denmark takes riders through a diverse terrain of rolling hills, presenting both physical and mental challenges. While the weather forecast appeared promising, nature had other plans. The nights proved to be the most arduous, with temperatures dropping to -1 degree Celsius, accompanied by a bone-chilling wind and 90% humidity. It was a battle against the elements that demanded unwavering perseverance.
The Unique Challenge of the Unsupported Race: As a participant in the unsupported version of the race, I had to navigate the additional stress and complexity of taking a train to cross the two main islands of Denmark. This added an element of uncertainty to the race, requiring meticulous planning to ensure timely connections. It was a unique aspect that tested my adaptability and resourcefulness.
The Sleepless First Night and the Windy Second Day: Eager to make progress, I chose not to sleep during the first night, relying solely on determination and adrenaline. The second day brought a new set of challenges as strong winds battered the coast, pushing me sideways. Struggling against the elements, I summoned all my strength and focused on maintaining my course amidst the relentless gusts.
Finding Respite and Renewal: By the third night, exhaustion began to take its toll, and I made the decision to seek shelter in a hotel. Those few hours of sleep and a refreshing shower revitalized both my body and mind. On the fourth day, as I ventured towards the island where Copenhagen is located, I marveled at the picturesque landscape and even had the unexpected pleasure of meeting local Dotwatchers, who were avidly following the race. Basking in the warmth of the sun, I took a well-deserved break and treated myself to a McDonald’s meal, relishing every bite.
The Harsh Reality of Night Four: With the intention to ride through the night, I faced the bitter truth of the freezing temperatures. The cold pierced my lungs, making it unbearable to continue. Thankfully, luck was on my side, and I discovered a hotel in the middle of nowhere, offering a much-needed respite from the relentless cold. Resting for the night allowed me to recharge and prepare for the challenges that lay ahead.
A Race Against Time and the Final Push: Day five demanded urgency as I hurried to catch the train, but unforeseen delays led to being overtaken by fellow riders. Nevertheless, I persisted, determined to reach the finish line. The final night proved to be one of the most grueling experiences, with my head feeling frozen, and the cold seeping into my every thought. To add to the challenges, the battery of my SRAM AXS shifter died, forcing me to rely on a single battery instead of the usual two. Wrapping myself in an energy blanket and layering up, I fought against the freezing temperatures and pushed forward, refusing to let the cold dampen my spirits.
Triumph at the Finish Line: As the sun rose on the last day of the race, a mixture of exhaustion, determination, and exhilaration surged through my veins. Despite the sleepless nights, bone-chilling cold, and unforeseen obstacles, I crossed the finish line.
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