The Spy Belgian Waffle Ride is an annual tough riding event in Southern California that challenges even the most seasoned Pros with a distance of 134.5 miles, of which ten miles take place on dirt, and 10,276 feet of elevation gain with beautiful views. Limited to 500 starters it also raised money for the Challenged Athletes Foundation.

The field looks impressive as it rolls out of town.

Further out on the course it spreads out nicely thanks to the wicked pace up front.

But it all started earlier in the day with a great waffle breakfast at the Spy headquarters.

As the peloton moved out of the city the terrain became more challenging.

A very select front group contained Ryan Trebon and Neil Shirley.

Good times for all at the various aid stations.

There wasn't much drafting on certain section of the course.

It is important to keep the body fueled during such long events.

Pushing on over one of many dirt sections.

If this does not look like fun, then what does?

Ryan Trebon as seen from the birds eye perspective.

A smile for the camera as you never know where the photo is going to show up.

But mostly athletes had to focus on the task ahead and the sometimes challenging course.

And folks crashing or falling over is not completely unusual either.

Sometimes pushing was the best option.

Either hop over the fence or squeeze through it.

Yup, that is what the doctor ordered after 134.5 miles of suffering.

Ready for the podium presentations.

The 3 fastest men share the podium and well deserved liquid.

The women's podium at this year's event.

Celebrating Challenged Athletes at the Spy Belgian Waffle Ride.