Great Western Training Program

Welcome to the 2024 Great Western Training Program (GWTP), a legacy training experience that has shaped countless champions over the past 30 years. I’m Gilberto Cortez, your lead coach for this year’s program, and I’m excited to guide you through nine weeks of structured, challenging, and rewarding training. Whether you aim to improve your endurance, hone your time trial skills, or become a stronger, more confident rider, this program is designed to push your limits and elevate your performance to new heights. Over the years, this program has welcomed riders from all over, and I’m proud to continue the tradition of integrating both time-tested strategies and the latest in training science.

Each week, we’ll focus on key aspects of cycling performance, from big gear intervals to pacing, climbing, and race simulation. The ultimate goal is to prepare you for the upcoming race season, specifically focusing on increasing your VO2 max, improving your lactate threshold, and fine-tuning your neuromuscular coordination. Alongside me, you’ll have the support of my assistant coach, Jacobo, and we’ll be working with experienced teams like the PRT and local clubs to ensure you get the most out of every session. If you’re ready to take your cycling to the next level, I invite you to join me in the 2024 GWTP – let’s build something great together!

Event Information:

• Program Duration:
  • October 27 – December 22, 2024
• Weekly Meeting Time:
  • Sundays at 8:00 AM
• Meeting Location:
  • Starbucks Bonita
    • Get Directions
    • 5030 Bonita Rd, Bonita, CA 91902
    • Corner of Bonita Rd and Central Ave
• Route Distance:
  • 62 miles per session
• Elevation Gain:
  • 5,200 feet per session
• Key Focus Areas:
  • Endurance, Climbing Intervals, Time Trials, Race Simulation
• Support:
  • Neutral food and mechanical assistance available

Route

Strava Segments

• Dehesa Rd – Interval 1
  • Distance: 0.55mi
  • Elevation Gain: 146ft
  • Avg Grade: 5.0%
  • View on Strava
• Dehesa Rd – Interval 2
  • Distance: 0.64mi
  • Elevation Gain: 185ft
  • Avg Grade: 5.4%
  • View on Strava
• Dehesa Rd – Interval 3
  • Distance: 0.70mi
  • Elevation Gain: 207ft
  • Avg Grade: 5.6%
  • View on Strava
• Japatul Rd – Interval 1
  • Distance: 0.41mi
  • Elevation Gain: 147ft
  • Avg Grade: 6.7%
  • View on Strava
• Japatul Rd – Interval 2
  • Distance: 0.45mi
  • Elevation Gain: 153ft
  • Avg Grade: 6.4%
  • View on Strava
• Japatul Rd – Interval 3
  • Distance: 0.81mi
  • Elevation Gain: 294ft
  • Avg Grade: 6.8%
  • View on Strava