The Journey Through Badlands: Grit, Resilience, and Cycling Through the Storm

Everything was set for the race of the year. This time, the nerves were more intense than ever. Despite competing in numerous events across various terrains, this race was different. An 800 km challenge with a daunting elevation profile awaited us—an adventure that would test every limit.

Preparing for the Challenge: Gear That Matters

Every detail mattered: hydration, nutrition, rest, gear, and clothing. That’s why I turned to Julian at Label Collective. For over 55 hours of racing, I needed high-performance apparel:

• Unisex SS Jersey: Lightweight, ultra-breathable, and designed to endure long races.
• Unisex Bib Shorts: Exceptional pad quality to prevent discomfort during extended rides.

With Label Collective gear, I felt confident that my clothing wouldn’t let me down, no matter what the race threw at me.

The Race Begins: A Calm Start

The race kicked off on Sunday, September 1st, at 8 AM. Competing in the pairs category with my friend Aleix, a specialist in ultra-distance racing, we started calmly. Saving every ounce of energy was crucial for the tough climbs and scorching desert stretches ahead.

Facing the Desert Heat

At km 240, the race took us through the Gorafe Desert, a brutal 80 km stretch under extreme heat. Aleix struggled as the heat took its toll, leading to severe fatigue and symptoms of heatstroke. Eating and drinking became a battle, and our goal shifted: survive until nightfall when cooler temperatures would offer relief.

Image Credit: Alex Gazquez

Nightfall Brings Respite

As the sun set, fiery red hues painted the sky, offering a moment of beauty amidst the struggle. Reaching the town of Gor at 10 PM, we refueled and headed toward the Calar Alto mountain pass. Spirits revived, we pushed forward, climbing through the night. By 5 AM, we conquered the summit under a sky full of stars.

The Storm Strikes

Descending from Calar Alto, the weather turned. Heavy rain and thick fog made visibility nearly impossible. The cold seeped through our soaked clothing, and we stopped to layer up. But 60 km later, rain, sweat, and grit caused severe chafing for Aleix, forcing him to stop. At km 390, just over halfway, our race ended.

Image Credit: Alex Gazquez

A Crossroads: The Decision to Continue

The weight of the situation was immense. Aleix, though devastated, urged me to continue. His conviction inspired me to push forward. Alone, I set off, determined to honor the journey we had shared and the dream we had chased together.

Pedaling Through Pain

With every pedal stroke, the race tested me further. The cold, the rain, and the exhaustion felt insurmountable. But memories of Aleix’s determination kept me going. His words echoed in my mind: "You can still finish this."

Image Credit: Alex Gazquez

Breaking Through the Fog

As dawn broke, I reached the next checkpoint. Exhausted but hopeful, I realized the toughest climbs still lay ahead. The finish line was distant, but its call was undeniable. The race had become a battle against myself—a test of endurance, resilience, and grit.

Lessons from the Journey

The Badlands race wasn’t just about competing; it was about discovering strength in adversity. Every challenge reinforced the importance of preparation, perseverance, and the right support. Gear like the Unisex SS Jersey and Unisex Bib Shorts from Label Collective played a crucial role, proving that high-quality apparel can make all the difference in ultra-endurance events.

While I didn’t reach the ultimate finish line, the journey itself became the reward—a testament to the human spirit’s ability to push forward, even when the odds seem insurmountable.