I managed to survive the Downieville 29-mile, mountain-bike race this past weekend. It consisted of a 4,200-foot climb and a 5,700-foot descent. The temperature was likely above 100 degrees! I'm certain it was the most, if not one of the most, technical rides I'd done. If we stopped the clock after the climb, I think I would have had a decent ranking, but it was the descent that killed me! Needless to say, I'd encourage any mountain-bike enthusiast to challenge themselves. Just like I said last year with regards to the Death Ride, you just have to say to yourself: What else do you have to do that Sunday? Just do it... You may surprise yourself.