5 Things I Did Wrong in Ultra Cycling: Tour Divide & Silk Road mountain Race winner Meaghan Hackinen with BuzzAlong
Video 5 Things I Did Wrong in Ultra Cycling: Tour Divide & Silk Road mountain Race winner Meaghan Hackinen with BuzzAlong
Video 5 Things I Did Wrong in Ultra Cycling: Tour Divide & Silk Road mountain Race winner Meaghan Hackinen with BuzzAlong YouTube Channel.
5 Things I Did Wrong in Ultra Cycling: Tour Divide & Silk Road mountain Race winner Meaghan Hackinen
BuzzAlong: The Journey into Ultra Cycling with Sher and Megan Hagenham
Welcome to the latest episode of the BuzzAlong Cycling Show! The cycling community continually thrives on shared stories of endurance, adventure, and triumph. In this episode, host Sher goes deep into the world of ultra cycling with the incredible Megan Hagenham, a remarkable athlete known for her stunning performances across various extreme cycling races. Let’s explore their captivating conversation and uncover some secrets behind Megan’s success.
Introduction: Diving into the Ultra Cycling Universe
Ultra cycling isn’t just a sport; it’s a lifestyle marked by challenges that push athletes to their limits. As Sher introduces Megan, the excitement is palpable. With victories in races like the Tour Dubai and the Hellenic Mountain Race, Megan has carved out a significant place in the ultra cycling world. The conversation kicks off by talking about the innovative gear Sher is using, including the AI-powered Insta 360 Link 2 camera that enhances the show’s audio-visual experience. This sets the stage perfectly for the deep dive into Megan’s cycling journey.
Megan’s Journey: From Ordinary to Extraordinary
Megan’s story is a thrilling ride, showcasing her evolution as she transitioned from the traditional road cycling realm to the grueling domain of ultra races. Reflecting on their shared experiences, Sher reminisces about their first meeting at the Atlas Mountain Race. Megan describes that race as ‘the toughest so far’ due to its unpredictable nature and challenging terrain.
The Atlas Mountain Race: A Life-Altering Experience
The Atlas Mountain Race is notorious for its daunting challenges. Megan recounts how every pedal stroke felt laborious. The unpredictable conditions can turn any race into an adventure, bringing the riders face-to-face with the raw beauty of nature—all while pushing them to their physical and mental limits. Megan reflects on a harsh night ride where fatigue almost overwhelmed her but the breathtaking views kept her moving forward.
The Secret to Success: Smart Racing and Preparation
In the world of ultra cycling, preparation and strategy are as vital as physical endurance. Megan’s experience in the Hellenic Mountain Race serves as a prime example. With almost 30,000 meters of climbing over 900 kilometers, each segment of the course posed different challenges. Megan’s approach was centered on staying consistently in motion, utilizing opportunities for hydration and rest at checkpoints, and embracing the stunning scenery that Greece had to offer. This balance between focus and enjoyment showcases how mental fortitude can empower athletes to perform their best.
The Role of Resupply and Navigation
Ultra cycling often includes intricate navigation and limited resupply points. Megan highlights how planning for resupplying becomes crucial in these races. The beauty of the journey makes every challenge worthwhile, but it also requires meticulous planning to ensure safety and preparedness.
Flat Bars vs. Drop Bars: Finding the Right Setup
Megan’s transition from drop bars to flat bars for her bike setup is an insightful discussion point. This decision stems from the need for greater control over technical terrain—a crucial factor in a race like the Hellenic Mountain Race. This gear adjustment not only affected her performance but highlighted the importance of personal comfort and handling preferences in ultra races.
Learning Through Challenges: Mistakes and Growth
Every ultra cyclist has stories of blunders and learning moments that shape their future performances. Megan shares her experiences with navigating through cities while sleep-deprived and recognizing the importance of carrying essential gear while setting up for sleep. She emphasizes checking before heading to bed—an easy but often overlooked point that can mean the difference between a comfortable night and a frustrating day ahead.
Racing Strategies: The Power of Focus
In ultra cycling, every rider encounters their personal challenges. Megan opens up about the mental aspect of racing, particularly around not checking the tracker constantly. The urge to keep tabs on competitors can cloud one’s judgment, leading to poor decision-making under pressure. Instead, she advocates for a more strategic approach—focusing on one’s own race rather than competing against the field. This perspective enables riders to stick to their original plan, ultimately leading to better performances.
The Motivation Behind the Madness
What drives athletes to embark on such arduous journeys? For Megan, it’s a combination of a love for nature, adventure, and the thrill of competition. Feeling vulnerable yet empowered in those intense moments creates a unique state of being that fuels her passion.
Future Goals and Aspirations
As the conversation winds down, Megan shares insight into her plans for the Silk Road race—an event renowned for its isolation and challenging terrain. The preparations involve not just physical training but a complete mindset shift to face the unknown, especially in remote regions where help is not easily accessible.
The Importance of Connection and Community
The ultra cycling community thrives on shared experiences. This camaraderie adds another layer to the sport, with riders often supporting one another through challenging times. Megan’s story serves as an inspiration to many who might be contemplating their own cycling ventures. The connections formed during races can lead to lasting friendships and unforgettable memories.
Conclusion: The Road Ahead
In the end, Megan’s journey reflects the spirit of ultra cycling—determination, resilience, and a love for adventure. As host Sher expresses his excitement for Megan’s upcoming races, listeners are left with a sense of inspiration and motivation to push their own limits. Cycling is more than just a sport; it’s a celebration of the human spirit, and with champions like Megan leading the way, the future looks bright.
For those interested in following Megan’s journey, be sure to check out her books, Shifting Gears and South the Way, which capture her adventures and lessons learned on two wheels. They offer valuable insights for both seasoned cyclists and newcomers alike.
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of the BuzzAlong Cycling Show! Subscribe for more stories of endurance, motivation, and the inspiring world of cycling.
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