135 miles and 3200 feet of climbing. We stayed in a La Quinta Inn last night in Gallup and according to their advertisements on TV, you rest so well there that you can get up in the morning and sell ice cubes to Eskimos. Well, I did not sell anything but I sure had a good day on the bike. It was 32 degrees when we left so we had to get out the winter gear. Most of the group is from more moderate climates and the weather was a real challenge for them. Some of them looked like Eskimos on their bikes they we so bundled up. It stayed chilly til early afternoon and we were able to begin shedding some of the clothing. We spent most of the day on Historic Highway 66 and the rest on I-40. The roads were excellent and took us through some beautiful terrain. We had tail winds but not nearly as brisk as yesterday, only about 10 mph. It was nice to not feel as if you could be blown off the road at any moment. I was on the bike for a little over 7 hours and averaged 16.4 mph. I had a very comfortable day of riding, felt strong and confident. The ride leader keeps telling us that we will get stronger as the ride goes on. Looks like he is right.
So far we have covered 847 miles. That is a lot of miles considering the fact that I showed up for this event having only ridden 766 miles this year! Tomorrow is an off day. We return to the road on Monday with what is billed as the toughest day of the tour. They also say that after Monday the worst of the physical riding challenge is over. I will withhold judgment on that!
We crossed the continental divide early in the morning. Based on my understanding of geography it is all down hill from here, at least until the Mississippi River.
Enjoy your well deserved day off!! According to the schedule you won't have another one for almost 2 weeks. As for me there is not such thing as a day off. This parenting, cooking, cleaning, washing, gardening, shopping, etc. has no end in sight. May 27th is a long way off and when you get home you will probably be so tired you sleep for a week.
ReplyDeleteLeisa
Hi Jay,
ReplyDeleteWe have enjoyed following you! Have a good day off, today. Look forward each day to reading your blog. You are awesome!! Keep up the good work!! Softball weather has not been great. Keri played in tourney yesterday and team went 1 - 2. Keri pitched a 2 hit shutout in their win.
hi road warrior;
ReplyDeletewe've been taking good care of leisa for you. jack is gone, you're riding the roads and gage has to hold down the fort. she is so lonely that we had to cheer her up with a day at the eastern market. she'll be o.k. for a few days.
love seeing and hearing about your adventures. your strength is amazing, have a great day off and rest,you've earned it and more.