Team Jeep enjoyed a very successful season opener last weekend at Rouge Roubaix. 13 members strong, Jeep rolled into the parking lot of the St. Francisville Inn ready to race. Saturday afternoon all gathered for a short pre-ride. We drove out to the first of three dirt sections and rode both the first and infamous 1.5 mile hill. It was great to get out of the car and onto the bike! Nerves subsided after seeing the great condition of the gravel roads (remember this is all relative!). In the past the sections of gravel/dirt roads have been treacherous, but thanks to a little Louisiana downpour two days prior, the gravel and dirt were well packed for our steady 23-25 mph pace.
After the 1.5 hour roll around the course, we drove back to the hotel to enjoy a “boot camp” style shower to make our dinner reservations on time. The reservation for 30 at the Cypress Grill was a sight to behold. Team Jeep dominated the restaurant and definitely overwhelmed the kitchen!! We enjoyed some excellent Cajun blues music and a special meal of pasta prepared just for us, thanks to Don. The food was great and company unparalleled. With full bellies (especially Ty after polishing off two plates of food!) and calmed nerves (then again, I may have been the only nervous one….), Team Jeep headed back to the hotel for a full night of sleep before the big day. (more…)