It’s Tuesday, May 5, 2026. I just got back from Girona after finishing the Traka 100, the biggest gravel bike race in Europe. When I signed up months ago, 100 kilometers (60 miles) felt like an impossible stretch for a "sprinter" like me. Today, I’m breaking down the raw experience of the race, how I shaved nearly an hour off my practice time in just one week, and why you should sign up for that "scary" challenge—even if you aren't sure you can finish.

I hope you enjoy it! As always you can learn more and connect with me on my website (andystorch.com) or LinkedIn. And you can find my books - Own Your Career Own Your Life and Own Your Brand, Own Your Career - on Amazon.