…is fifty-four years old today. To celebrate his birthday he’s doing what he always does on his birthday—pushing a giant tire up Moeser Lane to Arlington Avenue.
David Cesmat
A cycling website describes Moeser Lane: “Moeser Lane presents riders with a challenging short burst that tests both their power and endurance. Nestled in El Cerrito, California, Moeser Lane offers a harsh ascent spanning approximately 1.47 kilometers. Cyclists face an elevation gain of 195 meters, translating into an average grade of 13.4% - though certain sections can feel even steeper. Beginning at a modest elevation, the route climbs rapidly, delivering a real sense of achievement once the summit is reached. This climb is renowned in local cycling communities not just for its daunting gradient but also for its inclusion in intense ride circuits like the Nifty Ten Fifty. Whether you're pushing for a personal best or just looking to conquer this beast, Moeser Lane demands respect and grit from all who attempt its slopes.”
Epic Climbs.info
On the Way Up David Reads the Tire
Embrace the Suck. Keep Hope Alive. Strength is Built in Doing What is Difficult. Shut Up and Train. No One Cares. Unbreakable. Discomfort is Your Friend. Life Pushes Hard, Push Hard Back! Learn to Suffer in Training Without Complaining. Grind Hard. Stay Humble. It Gets Heavy…Good! Pain is Weakness Leaving the Body. Become the Best Version of Yourself.
David is tethered to the tire. If one goes down the hill the other goes, too.
David reaches the “easier” part of Moeser.
It’s not a sprint.
Once up he lets it fall, then starts all over again. When I ran into David he was about halfway up. His best time is six and a half hours. He was hoping to beat that today, November 11, 2024, his fifty-fourth birthday. In the rain.