Oaxaca was blanketed with cloud cover over several recent days with cooler temperatures and a constant threat of rain – though, in fact, the city received little precipitation through the week. However, skies were clearing when the ride got under way at 9 am on June 13 and there was no need for the rain gear riders carried with them. The small group of four cyclists concentrated their efforts on the back roads of the Etla Valley to the west of Monte Alban, covering a total of 52.9 kms (32.9 miles) while cruising up and over a couple of ridgelines, gaining and losing 563 meters (1847 feet) of elevation on the circuit. Riders set out at 9 am and were back in their respective homes by 1:15 in the afternoon, thus avoiding the rain showers that arrived about an hour later. All in all, it was a pleasant Sunday outing.