Tour of Nilgris

The Tour of Nilgiris (TFN) was a fantastic, one-of-a-kind experience. The hospitality of the organisers  was evident with hundreds of volunteers who provided personalized attention to the riders. The fully supported tour included multiple support stations with physio sessions. The course covered 800 KM with 13,000 m of climbing in 7 stages, starting in Mysuru and ending in Gundlupet. It was safe, scenic, and included competitive segments.

Coming from a road cycling background, I felt the need for coaching and worked with Niel Copeland for 5 months. The training blocks included short pushes & medium distances during the week and longer rides during the weekend. I missed a few long rides due to illness and didn't lose the 10 kgs I had aimed for.

My bike setup included a Scott Addict Gravel 30 frame, SRAM with XX1 -10-52 cassette with 40 ovals Rotor 1 X front chainring, Ritchey Carbon WCS gravel handlebar, Lun carbon wheels with Schwalbe G-One Speed 36 slicks, Garmin 1040 solar, and 2x750 ml bottles.

I had to scratch the race on Day 6 due to a major crash on a downhill.

The first 5 days were great. I flew business class, took a train to Mysuru with two other cyclists, and explored the city. Crankmeister, the technical partner, was helpful with bike assembly and maintenance. The organizers were well organized, and riders from all over India and other countries participated. The flag off started with heavy rain, which was a first for the event.

I was in a learning mindset, using all opportunities to get the best out of TFN. I rode in different weather conditions, took short breaks, and kept moving. Niel checked my rides daily and gave constructive feedback. The days went on, with a scenic course and hospitable volunteers. I felt tired but kept the momentum going.

My T2 diabetes was managed thanks to my friend and life coach, Nick Glover. Praveen and I developed great chemistry and rode together. Day 3 was the hardest, covering 145 Km with 2000m of climbing. Day 4, with the highly anticipated Kalhatty climb, was canceled due to safety issues. We were ferried to Ooty, and it was freezing.

After a well-deserved break, Day 5 was surprisingly tough. I felt down on energy, and Ooty's steep climbs and cold descents were challenging. I was confident about Day 6 but ended up in the hospital within 90 minutes due to a crash.

I was devastated about scratching the tour and worried about the next event. The organizers took good care of me, and fellow riders checked on me through messages and visits. I was grateful for the kindness and support.

I got back on the saddle with 3 weeks of recovery time, thanks to Niel and my friends.

My learnings from the experience include cycling with simple gear, riding longer for consecutive days, riding in different weather conditions and altitudes, pacing on longer and steeper climbs, and handling colder, hairpin, and steep descents.

I now see the Tour of Nilgiris as a foundation and the crash as an eye-opener. I would definitely go again to TFN and recommend it to others due to the trustworthy organizers, kind volunteers, great food, scenic course, and its suitability for those looking to start ultra races.