Calpe — The Ndlss® Rides series starts off strong
We couldn’t have asked for a better place or better people to kick off the season. This year’s opener in Calpe set the tone for what’s ahead, bringing together the Ndlss® community, our friends at 53.Eleven, and one of the best ride leaders we know — Jimbo Safi.
From the moment everyone came together, there was a buzz of joy and connection in the air. Fresh road bikes, bright winter sun, and a sense that today was the beginning of something greater. The roads we chose for Friday and Saturday were smattered with sections from Vuelta a la Comunitat Valenciana–the pavement painted with arrows and lines from the race.
Friday’s friends and family route revealed itself in true Costa Blanca form: long climbs, picturesque views, and the inevitable steep ramp. Unfortunately, this sharp gradient came when we were running on empty: right before lunch. We laughed in pain and earned the jamón and tortilla waiting for us at the top.
The main event took place on Saturday: a classic Col de Rates loop with the 53.Eleven crew and Jimbo at the helm. At the top of the summit, everyone was rewarded with delicious canned coffee from NOMAD COFFEE, gels and bars by Maurten, and gummies to feed the soul. Side-by-side, we swung back down to headquarters at 53.Eleven for post-ride recovery and conversation.
It was more than a couple rides, it was a celebration of what’s to come, in motion and in good company.
Onwards.
