#14 — Conquering the Heat, my journey of the Hotter’N Hell Hundred

As a long-distance cyclist and triathlete, I’ve always been drawn to challenges that push my limits. The Hotter’N Hell Hundred (HHH), one of the largest cycling events in the United States, held in Wichita Falls, Texas, offered just the kind of challenge I wish for. Between 15,000 to 20,000 cyclists participate in the event. Here are a few of my experiences tackling the intense Texas heat in third week of August and the grueling 100 miles in 100-degree Fahrenheit temperatures.

Hotter’N Hell Hundred

I have been fortunate enough to participate in the HHH in August 2017, 2018, and 2019. August 2017 was the only year when the temperatures were a bit more manageable in the 90s. Otherwise, it’s pretty much guaranteed that you are pushing towards 100-degree plus temperatures, even at the start of the event early in the morning.

Preparing for the Heat

Several biking events start as a way to prep for the HHH, including the Plano Bike Ride (100 Kms), Paris TX Ride (100 Kms), and Granbury Bike Ride (75 Miles), all hosted in July and August to get acclimatized to the Texas heat. Though none of these events are 100-mile events, being on the road week after week is the only way to gain an upper hand in this event. My preparation involved rigorous cycling sessions, participating in these events leading up to the HHH 100, and mentally preparing to overcome this challenge. The key is to figure out how much you…