Amistad (Del Rio) TX 3/30/08
109.6 miles today
1256 total
The name of the game today was persistence. It was the longest, most challenging day I’ve ever had on a bike. The first 55 miles were fine, lots of rolling hills under overcast (think wet and grey) skies. I think we were all feeling pretty strong.
At mile 55, just before lunch at mile 60, the headwinds began. They were intense for the rest of the long day. The road surface was chip seal – gravel with asphalt poured over which creates a bumpy, vibrating surface that makes everything shake and makes the body wear out faster from just hanging onto the bike. There was one mile about mile 80 where some new road construction created a smooth surface. That was an amazing treat and made us all realize how hard it is to ride on chip seal. Again, at mile 90 there were about 3 miles of smooth road. Ahhhh.
The other factor today was the terrain. We had heard there were rollers. What we didn’t know was that they were serious hills. Going downhill we had to pedal hard because of the wind. On the way up, we had to work hard because of the wind. Both ways we had to work hard because of the chip seal. I rode with Ann and Jane all day. Ann’s computer said we climbed over 3200 feet today.
At mile 78, we crossed the Pecos River. There was a long bridge across a wide river. There were rock bluffs on one side – just gorgeous. At mile 89 we were looking forward to the only convenience store on our 110 mile day all on US 90. It was closed. Darn.
The good news was that we made it – a personal longest mileage day and the most hours spent on a bike -10 and a half. It was a pleasure to ride with Ann and Jane as we supported each other with encouragement and commiseration throughout the day. I only took a couple of pictures but those will have to wait until tomorrow. I’m on my way to bed. I have a feeling I’ll sleep well tonight!
Nancy
Sabine