What does it take to test our limits? How far can we be pushed by nature? Is it our environment? Is it loneliness? Is it our ability to push our pain threshold, our endurance? I found the answer Saturday night at the Peoria Theater in the movie, Ride the Divide. This is a 2700 mile, Canada to Mexico race along the Continental Divide. The race (yes, race) is completely unsupported. This fantastic film, which was Best Adventure Film (first recipient), 2010 Vail Film Festival, mainly follows three people as they attempt to complete the race. We ride with the production team who at times lose the riders in snow storms and the wilderness. The only means of tracking the riders is their GPS tracking devices, but that requires having Internet or a reliable wireless network which most of this ground lacks.
Ride The Divide Movie Trailer from Ride The Divide on Vimeo.
We can see a change in the riders as the miles and climbs begin to take a toll on their bodies and bikes. But, what really is inspiring is to see that the physical toll, in most cases, is not what brings the riders to drop out or push on. It is the emotional strain of riding hundreds and thousands of miles alone. What is it that keeps them out their day after day putting in 50 to 150 miles a day, alone? Most drop out, but those who finish have some good insight of what it takes. It truly is inspiring to hear their stories and see the land. Check out the trailer and check out the movie. Then, air up the tires and get out there!
I've been riding outside the past three days. Twenty-three miles per to catch another guy Sunday afternoon. Wow! It is great to be outside, alone with your thoughts!
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