It’s my favorite time of year. A time that rivals March madness and Hockey Playoffs……Puerto Rico’s La Vuelta. Now in it’s 5th year, La Vuelta offers some of the most beautiful cycling scenery around and it’s all done when it’s freezing back home. Sure, I may have had to switch planes, hop on a train, change airports even to escape the wintery blizzard again this year, but it’s always worth it. I originally cycled La Vuelta in 2008 and when William (director of La Vuelta) saw my portfolio online, he asked if I would consider shooting the event. I jumped at the chance. And today we’ve grown not just as a ride but as an organization too. This year I’m bringing two assistants with me, Chris and Simone, and we’ve geared up for nearly 600 riders in 3 different groups: A, B, C. Cyclists of varying degrees of skill but there’s a bottom line for all: complete the ride, finish strong and look good for the camera. I can’t say that this happened for everyone and if it didn’t we may have been there to capture that moment as well. The next couple of posts are all going to concern this ride and I can honestly say that Chris, Simone and I are honored to be apart of LA VUELTA Puerto Rico and capture some priceless images. Thanks to every rider, staff member and especially our motorbike guys—without you, these photos would not exist.
Day One: San Juan to Ponce – 153 miles
The first day of La Vuelta is the longest and the most challenging. It begins in historic Old San Juan and heads east past some of the most popular beaches in Puerto Rico to the first rest stop at the El Conquistador Resort, where you can scan the horizon for views of Culebra & St. Thomas. From there, you’ll ride through Maunabo and climb to the top of Camino Nuevo. Take a moment at the top to enjoy the view before a fast descent to lunch at the Punta Tuna lighthouse. Then it’s a 60-mile spin to Ponce for dinner, dancing and a well-deserved night’s rest. (And rest we did)
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