My experience for the SK 300km brevet when compared to the 200km was night and
day. First and foremost I was able to meet several more very nice people as
well as enjoy the company of others met on the 200km brevet; Aaron B, Jason,
Veronica, Alex, Scott, Mark and Jack. I was able to ride in groups most of the
day, which always makes pedaling easier and more pleasurable. The other
difference was that I had neither mechanicals nor flats that had plagued me the
month before. This was a totally different ride. I had fun!
Early in the day I took comfort to be riding among others who were also
attempting their first 300 km. My hope was that we might somehow get ourselves
through it together. After the ride I had experienced on the 200 km, I was
having serious doubts. My confidence had been shaken, and I suspected I’d need
all the help I could get.
For the first 120 miles or so I was in groups of anywhere from two to six
taking turns doing pulls from just past Fairfax to Bodega Bay. From that point
as my ride partners chose to ease back, I rode alone as I found myself
maintaining an even pace throughout the day. My primary thought after the first
100 miles was to get to the last control at the Marshall store before it closed.
I had neglected to carry a postcard. When I got to the store the warm comfort
of the clam chowder was just what I needed for the ride back

As I turned onto Nicasio, I saw two taillights disappearing in the distance
and hoped to catch on to make the last 30 miles a little easier while still
keeping within myself. I wasn’t able to catch Willy and Lisa until the climb
into Fairfax. It was nice to have some company once more for the last 20 miles.
As we drew in closer to the finish the group added another, Aaron L, and there
were now four of us cruising through Corte Madera over Camino Alto and through
Sausalito.
I mentioned to Willy how much I hated the climb up to the bridge. It seems
I’m always exhausted at that point on the rides I’ve done in the area. I
recalled walking up the hill with cramps on the 200 km and watching the locals
magically disappear on other rides.
This time was different, no cramps. I looked back and saw my compatriots
riding comfortably together but I had a hard time staying with them. As I
pedaled up I found myself energized if not giddy. I was about to complete my
longest ride ever and I couldn’t contain myself. I was feeling as strong as I
ever had at the end of a brevet. I had to resist the urge to sprint as I
elatedly paced myself to the finish.
A big thanks goes out to all the volunteers, riders, and friends. I had a
great time! At the finish was my good friend Mike Biswell for whose hospitality
I am always grateful. One of his first comments was, I’d have almost thirteen
hours to complete another 100 km if this had been a 400 km, Hmmm.
Phil Magallanes




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