Finding motivation in the middle of nowhere

Today's stage was 75km with about 13,000 feet (3,900 meters) of climbing. The roads were the steepest I have ever seen in my life. Even defending La Ruta champion, Manny Prado, who is from Costa Rica, told me he has never seen anything steeper.

Rebecca Rusch first raced La Ruta de los Conquistadores in 2006.  She's back for her second attempt at the race.

The three-time 24-hour solo world champion has raced several endurance events this season including the Trans-Sylvania, Trans Andes, Tour de la Patagonia, Red Centre Enduro and the Leadville 100, which she won while also setting a women's course record.

The 42-year-old Rusch lives in Ketchum, Idaho.

Follow her daily race blog here.