Rock Cobbler 2023 – My First Gravel Race: A Wild Ride Through Bakersfield
Hey there, fellow cycling enthusiasts! I’m John, and boy, do I have a story to tell you. I just wrapped up my very first gravel race, and let me tell you, it was one heck of an adventure! I tackled The Rock Cobbler in Bakersfield, California, and whew, what a day it was. Picture this: 81 miles of riding, over 8,000 ft of climbing, and some of the craziest experiences I’ve ever had on two wheels.
Now, when I say this race was kooky, I mean it. We’re talking riding through someone’s house (yep, you read that right), hiking up muddy hills so steep I thought I’d slip right back down, and even getting heckled by some rowdy folks at a bar along the route. But you know what? Despite all the challenges, it was an absolute blast. I’m already counting down the days until next year’s race!
If you’re thinking about dipping your toes into the world of gravel racing, I’ve got some down-to-earth tips that’ll help you prepare for the wild ride ahead.
1. Don’t Snooze on Signing Up
First things first: these gravel races are hot stuff right now. They’re selling out faster than hot cakes, I tell ya. So, do yourself a favor and start looking for events in your area ASAP. Trust me, you don’t want to miss out because you dragged your feet. Plus, signing up early gives you plenty of time to train and get ready for whatever crazy challenges the race might throw at you.
2. Know Your Battlefield
Before you show up on race day, it’s super important to know what you’re getting yourself into. Check out the event website and study that course map like it’s your new favorite book. What kind of terrain are you dealing with? How many hills are there? Any weird obstacles to watch out for?
For The Rock Cobbler, I found out I’d be facing some monster hills and even a character called Tacoman (still not entirely sure what that was about, but it sure kept things interesting!). Knowing this stuff in advance helped me tailor my training. I spent extra time grinding up steep hills and doing longer rides to prepare for the 81-mile beast of a course.
3. Gear Up Right
Having the right equipment can make or break your race day. For The Rock Cobbler, the organizers recommended wide tires and low air pressure, and boy, was I glad I listened. It made those bumpy gravel sections a lot more manageable.
Give your bike a good once-over before the big day. Check your brakes, tires, and any other parts that might need some TLC. If you’re not confident in your wrench skills, no shame in taking it to your local bike shop. Oh, and don’t forget to pack a spare tube and tools for fixing a flat. Nothing puts a damper on race day like being stranded with a puncture!
4. Dress for Success (and Comfort)
Weather can be a tricky customer, especially in places like Bakersfield in the winter. I made sure to check the forecast the day before and dressed in layers. I started with a base layer and arm warmers, which was perfect. Remember, it’s better to be a little chilly at the start than lugging around extra clothes when things heat up later.
5. Fuel Your Engine
Let’s talk about the all-important topic of food and drink. Trust me, you do not want to “bonk” during a long race like this. What’s bonking, you ask? It’s when you run out of energy because you haven’t eaten enough carbs. Imagine trying to pedal a bike through molasses – that’s what bonking feels like.
A good rule of thumb is to drink one bottle and eat one energy bar every hour. And for the love of all things cycling, don’t skip the rest stops! They’re there for a reason, and you’ll need that fuel to keep going.
6. Pace Yourself, Partner
When that starting gun goes off, it’s tempting to zoom out like you’re being chased. But trust me, slow and steady wins the race (or at least finishes it without collapsing). Find a comfortable pace that you can maintain for the long haul. It’s always better to start slower and have energy left at the end than to burn out halfway through.
7. Know the Rules of the Road
Every race has its own set of rules, so make sure you read up on them beforehand. This includes safety requirements and how to pass other riders politely. Nobody likes a rude racer!
8. Keep Your Head in the Game
Staying focused during a long race can be tough, especially when you’re tired and sore. But keeping a positive attitude can make a world of difference. Remember why you signed up in the first place – for the challenge, the experience, and most importantly, the fun!
Looking Back on My First Gravel Race
Now that I’ve got my first gravel race under my belt, I can honestly say it was one of the most challenging and rewarding experiences of my cycling life. Sure, there were moments when I questioned my sanity (like when I was pushing my bike up a muddy hill), but the sense of accomplishment at the finish line was unbeatable.
The camaraderie among the riders was something special, too. We were all in it together, facing the same crazy challenges and cheering each other on. And let’s not forget the stunning scenery – even when I was huffing and puffing up a hill, I couldn’t help but appreciate the beautiful Bakersfield landscape.
So, if you’re on the fence about trying a gravel race, I say go for it! Yes, it’s tough. Yes, it might push you out of your comfort zone. But it’s also an incredible adventure that’ll leave you with stories to tell for years to come.
Remember, at the end of the day, it’s not about where you finish in the pack. It’s about challenging yourself, enjoying the ride, and maybe making some new friends along the way. So gear up, get out there, and embrace the wild world of gravel racing. Who knows? You might just find your new favorite cycling discipline.
See you on the gravel!
John
P.S. If you want to see more of my cycling adventures and pick up some tips along the way, check out The Masters Cycling Channel. Happy riding!
