It was a lovely 55 degrees, and the route for the day was 49 miles of stunning scenery on US 60, climbing 4,000 feet with an endless stream of motorcycles, RVs and cars roaring by in both directions, often on a two-lane highway -- sometimes with a passing lane on the right.
I drove the SAG Wagon today. My body needed rest after covering 246 miles in the past four days. My hands had became so numb, the right one especially, that I couldn't hold my fork, or turn the key in the ignition! I looked like I needed to be dropped off at the Tranquil Acres Rest Home!
As the SAG today, I felt very helpful, and critical to the mission. One rider didn't attempt any of this day's challenges. Two riders decided the traffic was too much, and quit after 20 miles. Two climbed all the hills for 40 miles, and rode in the last eight to get out of traffic. All had to have their bikes put on the bike rack on the roof of the car and be transported.
Along the route, before my shuttling of people began, there was a one-third mile tunnel. I escorted each rider or each small group through with my caution lights flashing on the Subaru like the "wide load" vehicles. The cyclists said the noise of in the tunnel was teeth-jarring. Once I had shepherded a few through, I would turn around, return to the west side of the tunnel and wait for the next rider(s). We were all safely into the motel by 2:30. I tried hard not to munch on all the snacks in the SAG Wagon today, since I wasn't burning calories like I do when I'm cycling!
I enjoyed half a waffle, some fruit and coffee for breakfast. During day, I munched on grapefruit, dried fruits and nuts. And dinner, at the Mexican restaurant next to the motel, was chile relleno and a tostada.
We made a slight adjustment on my bicycle this afternoon, and I'll wear different gloves tomorrow -- and hope the hands return to normal. I can't wait to be back in the saddle again! 495.6 miles completed, 2,604.4 to pedal -- and 48 days to go.
GREAT photos! Glad to see you're seeing such incredible stuff. Sounds like the riding's good, too, and you're chowing down! Whooo-hooo!
ReplyDeleteA well-deserved rest! Good luck tomorrow!
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