Crossing through the entry gate and ascending up Pikes Peak Toll Road at 4am for the first time, I knew it was real.  I knew I was actually here for an amazing event I have only watched on TV and online.  As we climbed up the mountain road towards our photo spot of the day, I was in awe of the scenery even at night.  Once we arrived at our spot, it was amazing to look down upon the lower road and see the constant flow of headlights, heading up to their practice areas. Practice began promptly at 5:30am as the sun began to rise and this is what I saw though the 3 days of practice.