Test of Metal
Rider Profile
Name: Bryan Raiser
Why are you doing the test?
It's a "because I can" thing this year.
Have you done the test before?
Twice: Five and Six years ago.
What did you learn from your last test experience?
It doesn't matter how delicious it looks, or how beautiful the siren handing it to you is, save the beer for the end.
What are you looking forward to the most?
Coming in clean at the finish line of the Rock Star.
What are you dreading the most?
It's the best of times and the worst of times at the Tantalus Beach. The best atmosphere of good people having a good time, while the riders suffer the most heinous, soul-crushing leg cramps. Damn those cramps.
What kind of frame do you ride on?
5' 10" Caucasion. It's a "fixer-upper".
Do you have an inspiring rider?
Anyone who takes more than four hours to finish.
How are you preparing for the Test?
It's been a fantastic family effort. Ma and Pa helped us get a chariot, and my daughter Sarah has been the best trainer ever. For the last couple of months I've been taking her up Nine Mile to the top of Bonk Hill. There is nothing, I repeat nothing, in the world like having your legs burning to the point of collapse and then have a tiny voice chant 'daddy, daddy, daddy' as you crest the peak. As fun as that is, I look forward to climbing nine-mile without the 50lb chariot.
How will you celebrate afterwards?
Go as long and hard at the Fantastic Furios at the Brew Pub as I can. Then pray there's enough juice left in the tank to survive the Rock Star.
