Climbing in the snow

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Morning arrives in Bormio and we are greeted by rain and low cloud which has curtailed our riding plans so we intend to wander into the town for sight-seeing and stretch of the legs. The hotel staff must know something as they have got the open fire going and the temperature is about 12 degrees. Hopefully the weather will clear and we can get on the bikes this afternoon and attempt some climbing. Don’t mind getting wet, but coming down mountains will be dangerous and bloody cold as well as not being enjoyable. Looks like the Giro will be getting wet as they are in the same valley as we are. Could be good for the Aussies as Cadel descends better than Basso and conditions should suit him.
After going to the local bike shop and purchasing the Bormio kit, it was back to the hotel for work on the computer and lunch. Luckily I was in the right place at the right time as a ride was being arranged. On with the wet weather gear, booties, long gloves, leggings etc and we left the hotel about 14.30 to ride to the Torri de Fraele which is near Bormio and Lake Cancanyo. This was a great ride going up via quite a few switchbacks to a height of 1941m, or a climb vertically of about 700m as we are 1200m above sea level in Bormio. Good photos and great descent and the majority of the group decided to head for the Gavia, which is closed due to weather conditions, but we will climb as far as possible. Good ride through valley with gradual climb until we hit the ascent of the Gavia. Steep climb, even though it averages about 5.5% and when we got to where the road was blocked, our bus driver simply lifted the bikes over and we continued riding to the summit at 2652m. Had drinks and warmed up in the cafe at summit, took photos of sign (proof of attendance) and snow surrounding the area. The Giro goes through here on Saturday I think, so it will be interesting if there is still a lot of snow around. Conditions will be slippery for the boys on the descent. We descended from the Gavia and had a great ride with one of the ex pros who works for Bikestyle into the town of Bormio. Could have got paced in but wanted to work and it was great. Hope the weather remains good for the rest of the week but not looking the best. Will keep you informed.

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