A very long day started early in Udine, where we had some problems getting out of the city. After some adjusting we got on track towards Sutrio where we would start the climb of Monte Zoncolan. The first 6 miles were not real bad, but the final 2 miles are so steep that we had trouble keeping the front wheel on the ground. The downhill was just as steep and gave us a true sense why this climb is rated the hardest from that side up. Two more very long climbs were on our route and we we finished with 123 miles and over 15,000 feet of climbing. It was a warm day with just a little rain late in the afternoon. There is nothing more exhilarating than getting to the top the the mountain peaks and seeing the magnificent view!
The Zoncolan is done! One monster down and four or five to go. 123 miles and 15,000 feet of climbing is a real accomplishment. Good luck and enjoy the views.
It must have been a very long day – I didn’t hear from Bob until 10:30 pm your time! Good job everyone!