Words and photos: Peter Slate
Maui’s annual Century ride went off smoothly on 21 Nov 2010. About 100 people competed in the event, with roughly half doing the full Century and half doing the 50 mile. The event starts at 6H30 from Maui’s beautiful Makena Resort, and heads out to the notorious North Shore. Just 4 miles into the ride, and first little test arrives, The Shops at Wailea … a 300ft climb, steep and long enough to hurt if someone wants to throw down the hammer. So far, so good, and the ride remains cordial for the next 31 miles, passing through Paia, and the world famous windsurfing beach, Hookipa, before dropping down into Maliko Gulch. This is where the race starts ….. the stronger riders start hammering out of Maliko Gulch, wich is a short, steep, nasty start to a 10 minute climb. This climb later turns a corner and puts you straight into the wind !! Here the group broke up pretty well and stayed that as everyone made their way out to the turn around mark, the 8 mile marker past Twin Falls.
With the wind now on your back, and several downhill sections, the stronger riders can quickly gain time and distance. The race then passes back through Paia, and goes through Kahalui, and out to Waiehu. This marks the start of a 1000 ft accent. The climb offers some incredible Maui views, and while there is some trade wind breeze, its also 10H00, the sun is blazing, and there are some hot windless spots which feel like you’re riding in an oven ! Finally ! you get to the next turn around point at Curley’s Fruit Stand. There are aid stations along the way, but none so welcoming as this one ! From then on its 25 miles of flat out, tail wind, speed back to Makena. Any groups will stay together at this point as there isn’t really an difficulty, rather just fatigue !!
There were several Canadian riders, who together with some of the stronger local riders, put on a good show, but no-one could match Oahu rider, Jason Smith who rode in as the solo winner, with a time of 4H48. The race celebrations were held at the Makena Resort beach, an ideal race venue ! It’s very encouraging to see riders from other islands coming to enjoy Maui. A big thanks to South Maui Bikes for sponsoring the event.
The next Maui Ride will be at the Ulupalakua Ranch at 8H30, on 18 Dec 2010. The 37 mile ride will be hosted by Maui Cyclery, and there are rumors that some of the Garmin Professional Cycling Team members will be present ….. should be exciting to see the boys in action !! More on that from your trusty NP Maui Epic rider after the 18 Dec ….
Aloha,
Peter