Fantastic Fondo

The 2023 Frost Heave Fondo is in the books.

The first event of any cycling season always serves as a reminder of several realizations. For starters, the need to get up way too early — to gather the necessary gear, to scarf down a nourishing meal, and, a key component, finish up all your bathroom visits before you jump into the car. There's also the accompanying uncertainty of what the weather will be like, despite the predicted forecast. Thus, preparing properly for what Mother Nature has in store.

But mostly, I always wonder why I keep doing these darn things?

Even as I drove to Searsmont, Maine, to participate in my third Frost Heave, I seriously pondered my reasons for putting myself through such an ordeal. It. was cold and as moisture made spots on my windshield, I told myself if I had to turn on the wipers, I was making a U-turn and heading home. Luckily, I guess, I didn't have to, so I kept going.

As they say, "Flats happen."

You already know there's going to be some discomfort. The organizers even stated in the final pre-event email that "your feet are going to get wet."

So, anyway, I and 149 other brave souls showed up for the Sunday romp. One option explored 50 miles of the rugged countryside, while I and my group of three friends selected the more humane route of 35 miles. And, yes, there was plenty of everything. Lots of hills, with nearly 2,200 feet in elevation gain. And lots of mud and water. While trudging through countless deep, murky holes, my shoes were covered in white foam. I'm wondering what disease am I about to catch?

As ridiculous as this might sound, while we alternated between paved and gravel roads, I kept thinking about Paris-Roubaix, a professional bicycle race held in northern France. That spring classic, created in 1896, goes back and forth between asphalt surfaces and cobblestones. Obviously, there is no comparison between the two, especially when one considers the difficulty factor. But for some reason, it was on my mind.

Despite my grumbling, there was plenty of something else. There was lots of fun. I truly enjoyed bouncing around and chasing after my trio of cycling companions — John, Dan, and Steve. It was even John's 54th birthday. It didn't seem fair that the only gift he got during the ride was a flat tire. It was a blast hanging out with them and I'm looking forward to doing some road riding with my new "gang" in the coming season.

My bike choice for the day was my Specialized Crux cyclocross beast. It performed like a champ, equipped with 38mm Specialized Trigger Pro tires. No slipping and sliding the entire time.

The Frost Heave Fondo takes place in a very relaxed atmosphere. It's not a race; participants are just chilling and having a good time. Tons of smiles and "good morning" greetings. And with a craft beer brewery conveniently located at the start-finish area, there was definitely a taste of victory when it was all over.

I'm sure my misgivings of doing the Frost Heave will be forgotten by this time next year, and you'll probably find me raring to go again. Stay safe!

My partners for playing in the mud, from left, John, Dan, and Steve.