... After a full day of r&r and cemetery tourism with Tyrel in the border town of Tulcán, my shoulder was stable enough to handle some steady pedaling with Jordan as we followed the epic routes of the next two stages through the Andes on the way to Quito for the final day’s circuit race. I felt invigorated watching Ian’s consistency on his way to a 13th place finish on GC (5th in U23) in a field of talented climbers, Taj’s tenacity and 3 impressive stage results, and Henry’s perseverance in completing the arduous parcours within time cut despite his barebones training plan. I couldn’t have asked for a more pleasant squad to spend the week with. Ian and Taj showed me the ways and slang of the hilarious void of attention span that is their version of Gen Z humor. Jordan was the chillest roommate and most upbeat riding buddy imaginable. Tyrel, Ethan and Henry kept the atmosphere completely positive despite illness, crashes, injuries, and innumerable mechanicals. And of course our crew of Gus, Pablo and Josué did an incredible job of handling our smorgasbord of issues, wrangling complex logistics, and dealing with my impatient ass all week long. Thanks, @teamriogrande, for this amazing opportunity.