Phil's Cookie Fondo: A Milestone in My Year of Rediscovery
Phil's Cookie Fondo was the event I had been building toward all year—a symbolic capstone to a transformative journey getting outside of our Atelier and back to cycling this year. Held in late October, it marked nearly a year since I returned to the bike, and it promised to test my limits in ways I hadn’t experienced in years. The Double Fudge route lived up to its reputation: 103 miles with nearly 11,000 feet of climbing and descents as steep as -23%. Despite having tackled legendary climbs like El Teide in the Canary Islands and some of the most iconic roads from the Tour de France, the unique combination of brutal gradients and technical descents packed into a single day still made this one of the most challenging events I’ve ever undertaken.
Setting the Stage: Preparation and Goals
Arriving in Malibu with my husband Kevin the day before the ride, I managed to squeeze in a short opener around Calabasas. Even those brief miles were eye-opening, giving me a small but critical taste of the descents I’d face the next day. These weren’t the familiar, flowing roads of New York City. They were steep, winding, and demanding—a reminder of why this Fondo had been a key goal in my year-long training plan.
As a NYC-based cyclist, my usual rides are rather flat, with limited access to sustained climbs or technical terrain. My coach and I had worked diligently to bridge this gap, tailoring my training to include indoor sessions focused on climbing strength and endurance while dedicating outdoor rides to honing my descending skills. Despite this preparation, I knew Malibu’s Santa Monica Mountains would present a new level of challenge.
The Event Atmosphere
Malibu was breathtaking—expansive ocean views, rugged mountain roads, and a eucalyptus-scented breeze that felt like a warm welcome to the West Coast. The event itself, founded by former pro cyclist Phil Gaimon, had a laid-back yet efficient vibe. While the organization wasn’t flashy, it was impeccable, and the 10,000 gourmet cookies scattered across the course added a whimsical, indulgent touch (gluten-free options included!). What stood out most, though, was the sheer caliber of the participants—young, fit, and undeniably strong. If Gran Fondos are struggling elsewhere, the crowd at Phil’s Cookie Fondo hadn’t gotten the memo.
The Ride: Tackling the Double Fudge
The ride began with a neutral start, easing into a gradual ascent that helped everyone settle into a rhythm. It wasn’t long, though, before the course revealed its true nature. A brutally steep climb shattered the front group early on, and I made a conscious decision to hold back and stick to my own pace. It turned out to be the right call. Within 10-15 minutes, I was steadily overtaking riders who had burned their matches trying to keep up with the leaders.
The course was a rollercoaster of physical and mental demands. The Mulholland Highway descent offered a rare moment of respite, with sweeping views of the coastline serving as a stunning distraction. But the relief was short-lived as we approached Potrero Road—a climb infamous for its relentless gradients and punishing elevation gain. Reaching the summit was a victory in itself, made even sweeter when I was greeted by a familiar face—a RUBBER N’ ROAD customer cheering me on.
Reflections on Growth and Resilience
Completing Phil's Cookie Fondo was more than a personal achievement; it was a testament to the resilience I’ve been cultivating all year. The event exposed areas where I can grow—sustained climbing, technical descents—but also reaffirmed my mental fortitude and ability to adapt to challenges.
Beyond the physical test, the camaraderie among riders and the shared joy of cycling through such stunning terrain reminded me why I fell in love with the sport. It’s not just about the effort—it’s about exploring new places, pushing boundaries, and connecting with a community of like-minded athletes who share a passion for the ride.
Looking Ahead
Phil’s Cookie Fondo set a new benchmark for my personal goals. It wasn’t just a ride—it was a journey that symbolized everything I’ve worked for this year. The experience has reignited my drive to continue improving, especially in handling technical terrain, and inspired me to take on more events that combine challenge with community and adventure.
As I reflect on this incredible day, I feel immense gratitude—not just for the opportunity to ride through one of the most beautiful cycling regions in the world, but for the journey that brought me here. I’m already looking forward to returning, stronger and more prepared, to tackle the roads of Malibu once again.