Last weekend we held our 2nd annual DDA Napa Valley Training camp.  I’ve been living in Sacramento for the last decade but the Napa Valley always feels like home.

Moving West

My family moved across the country from Staunton, VA in 1991. I attended elementary school, high school, then college, all surrounded by the vineyards, rolling terrain, and world class restaurants of the Napa Valley.

I proudly call Sacramento home but introducing others to the Napa Valley is one of the highlights of the year.  The Napa Valley shaped much of who I am and for 3 days I get to enjoy it on the bike with others.

Here are a few moments from camp.

Day 1: Old Howell to Conn Dam

Our first ride of the camp had us leaving from St. Helena, heading up toward my home town of Angwin, then looping back past Conn Dam before arriving back at our start.

Our signature climb up Old Howell highlighted in yellow

 

Our first day saw us take in the popular Old Howell Mtn. climb.

 

Long time friend and camper Travis “Arugula” R. enjoys a short break after an all-out effort up Old Howell

 

DDA coach Sam Bassetti enjoying the spoils of victory after setting a new lifetime 20m power PR up Old Howell

 

The timeless and iconic Pope Valley Garage at the base of our first descent

 

I grew up playing baseball at Crane Park in St. Helena. I was easily the worst player on our team.  Starting and ending our ride from the same spot I played little league is always a trip.

 

Our lunch for the day came from Giugni’s Deli, the undisputed sandwich champion of the world.

Day 2: Guerneville – Kings Ridge – Coleman Valley

Our longest ride of the camp happened on day two where we started in Guerneville before heading out toward the legendary Kings Ridge Road.

Kings Ridge highlighted in yellow

 

Making a few derailleur adjustments atop Kings Ridge

 

Eric grabs some crucial carbs mid ride

 

“Kansas City” Rob puts down a grits, bacon, and thyme portable.

 

Anthony returns to King Ridge for the second year

 

Heading south along the coast

Day 3: Old Toll – Ink Grade

Our final day of the camp had us leaving from our hotel before taking in the rustic Old Toll road followed by our final climb of the weekend, my personal favorite, Ink Grade.

My favorite climb of the weekend, Ink Grade, highlighted in yellow

 

Philip’s choice for optimal fueling and hydration

 

Heading through Pope Valley

 

Philip tackling another roller

 

SAG all-star Greg

 

Kansas City finishing Ink Grade with a flourish

 

Eric finishing camp in the box

 

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Nate Dunn, M.S.
Data Driven Athlete
@ddacoaching