Paluxy Pedal

 Paluxy Pedal

Glen Rose, Texas

October 5, 2019

We had never been to the Paluxy  Pedal so all we knew was the website promo.

"The CareFlite Paluxy Pedal is fast becoming one of the top rides in Texas.  The ride starts and ends at the northern tip of the Hill Country in beautiful Glen Rose, Texas. The meandering paved route takes you through scenic views, gentle hills and challenging climbs." (Emphasis added)

"Whether you are a novice or advanced

rider, you will have fun with the other
 riders and volunteers who all help to
 make this ride an unforgettable annual
 event, and one that you don’t want to
 miss. 

Ride distance:29 miles, 38 miles, 53 miles & 60 miles."  (We chose the 53 mile course). 

 

"The 53- and 60-mile rides take you to
 the top of the wall - a 3/10 of a mile
 stretch with a hill grade of almost 19%
 at its steepest. The view of miles of
 beautiful vistas is worth the effort."

 

Christine with her "only 3/10 of a mile hill grade of 19% grade smile." "Shucks, I just completed the Mt. Locke 7 mile Cat. 3 climb, this should be a piece of cake ride." Yeah, sure.

 Line up shot doesn't show the extent of riders. There were probably 3 blocks of riders eager to start on this beautiful morning.

 We held off and started last as it was a mass start with all distances going at once.

 We wanted the crowd to start drawing out to reduce possible spills. 

 Beginning was deceiving. Peaceful flat country lane. 

 Which quickly changed into the "gentle hills." But the downhills were great. 

 I included this picture so that there was some flat terrain.

 And nice scenery. 

 And more drop offs. 

 Thank goodness, half of the ride was downhill.

 Because the other half is uphill.

 

 

 When I saw what was ahead, I wondered it we would go over or around the hills. 

 This answered my question. 

 But there has to be an end sometime. 

 By mile 20 rest stop, I felt like I had just done an out-and-back over Burma Road.

  But more was to come--30 miles to be exact.

 This is one of the shots that is so aggravating. Remember the hype about "THE WALL?" This is the beginning of it and it looks tame. 

 NOT! These were strong young riders pushing their bikes up the climb.

 19%

 At the top were a group of volunteers cheering us on and--

handing out our major achievement award. Thanks, good memento.

 Another reward. We had to get down the hill somehow. 

 But other adventures are in the distance.

 

  This highway shoulder was really nice and smooth. Forgotten in all the ups and downs was the fact that all of the Paluxy Pedal roads were great. Very little if any large chip seal. Made for a very pleasant ride.

Leveling out toward the end of the ride. 

 Finish line just ahead.

 They were having some type of band contest at the stadium but we didn't get to hear any of the contestants.

 Clock shows 12:10 p.m. as I rolled past. Christine was waiting for me at the car. She had an 18 mph average; I finished. 

 After the ride we were treated to pizza. Hit the spot. Not withstanding the pizza, we have decided that we will try to make Paluxy Pedal an annual event. Yep, the ride was that good. And that will give us a chance to talk about Fossil Rim and dinosaur tracks next year.