Many readers of the blog have participated in our Pocatello rides over the years. The Four Peaks Gran Fondo is a three year old event which visits the same four climbs (Crystal, Scout Mountain, Pebble Creek, Buckskin) as our Pocatello rides although in a different order. The route of the 4PGF (their acronym) is about ten miles longer than our traditional route at a distance of 80 miles. Regardless of the route specifics it is an epic hard ride, but fun and scenic, not a grim death march.
Temperatures yesterday were milder than forecast. We were surprised by 40 F temperatures at the start, which is why Wes is stuffing his jersey with paper. Kelly appears in the background of that picture. The rest of the Rexburg locals appear in Jake’s selfie: Jake, John, Wes, and me. Thanks to Jake for the photos.
Congratulations to Barrie’s and the organizers on a very well supported and organized event. With a relatively modest entry fee and a generous swag bag (string pack, custom water bottle, quality T shirt, etc) a post-race meal, and an unusually beautiful finisher’s medal, the 4PGF was a real bargain for people who like to do events to get stuff. The structure of the 4PGF was perfect for a mass participation event with timing on the climbs only and not on the descents and transitions. 4PGF drew a decent amount of local talent and there was some real racing taking place on the climbs. But in the absence of timing for the overall, most people would make a fairly leisurely transition at the aid stations at the top of the climbs.
On balance, the quality of the Four Peaks Gran Fondo exceeded my expectations. I will look forward to returning in the future.
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