This is the 2nd race I did in the series this summer. Arizona Road Racers brings out hardcore weekend warriors for their races. The races are always well organized and no-nonsense.

This event took place inside South Mountain Park. Even with at 6:30 AM start, it was still well into the mid 80's. This race had an age-graded start. I was assigned a start time of 6:34:30 based on my age group. The course is a simple out and back course, but it still has it's challenges. It was a steady incline up for the first mile, then a quick dip, then a little more climbing, then the turnaround came. I was waiting for some great downhill experience and it of course was more of a gradual downhill run.

It is typically pretty tough competition for Arizona Road Racers events. I manged to get 4th place out of 22 in my age group, but they certainly gave me a run for my money! The race is very inexpensive - $20 for non ARR members, $15 for ARR members. You need to pay if you want a shirt and there are NO finishers medals :( There are, however, age group awards 3 deep.

Parking is easy, they give you a pass to download, and picking up your bib is a breeze that morning. There is no pickup the day before.

In summary, I would recommend this race to anyone looking for a challenge! It's a tough climb with no bling, but it is good practice and great views! The roads are closed to traffic, so it's just you and the cactus!