MITZI-Racing: 5-Seen-Radmarathon

Rennbericht von unserer Powerlady Greta: 

​FINALLY!
I can finally say that I have accomplished the 5-Seen Radmarathon Mondsee and I am feeling rather pleased.
 
First off, I’d like to mention that the distance was 140km and not 134km as advertised with 1100Hm to conquer, and believe me those last 6km were indeed notable!

The atmosphere at the starting gate was filled with good energy. Although I didn't find the other MITZI’s, the day started out fine getting ready to roll out. Calm but excitement was among the various teams and participants. It was fun to see some familiar faces of friends who share the same passion for road biking.
 
The weather was quite unstable and unsure if it would begin to pour down or not and before the first 8km were completed, my socks and shoes were already drenched.
This having been my record longest distance, I didn't really know what to expect so i took off at the start rather easy, pacing myself for the rest of 132km.
At 25km the first accident occurred which reminded me to be cautious. Unfortunately there were drivers on the road who still have little experience and/or respect for bikers which was a small minus point for the event. Thank goodness the injuries were minor.
After a short distance, although it remained quite cloudy, the rain subsided and all in all the temperature was quite perfect for biking!

It was a fun experience biking with a few thousand others, meeting and greeting people who don't know each other but all in all, basically have the same goal.
 
The area of Salzkammergut and this Tour around the 5-Lakes are some of the most spectacular and scenic routes I know of in Austria and it was indeed a great pleasure to have accomplished this Tour by bike. After ca 120km, the first most breathtaking view of the Attersee greeted me! To be accompanied by this beautiful lake for the next 20+km or so was a beautiful inspiration and answers the ever rhetorical question “Why am I doing this?”.

The last 10 km and the last few 100 HM were indeed the hardest but having comrades on the road to encourage each other gave me that extra strength to push along. Hearing loud applauses and greetings from a large crowd of unknown spectators gave me a great sense of relief and gratitude at the Finish Gate of this fanastic tour.

5-Seen Radmarathon Mondsee, see you next year! I love the Salzkammergut!