Sunday, July 31, 2011

Dipping tires

Here we are yesterday arriving at end for traditiinal front tire dip In Mississippi at end of ride. Weren't able to dip back tire in Missouri at start due to residual flooding in that area.
Dont have all stats together, however each day's (7 days total) ride was between 59 mi. (shortest) and 75 mi. (longest) with most falling in mid 60 range. We were told it was 2nd hottest ride on record (in 49 yr history). Every day was sunny except for one that had cloud coverage and a few slight showers (a welcome relief!)
It was an incredible week of fun and very challenging riding. Lots of hills and more cyclists than you can imagine seeing in one place. Towns had stream of riders go through from as early as 5 a.m. well through early evening.
WOW! What an experience!!

Popular spot

One pass through town had these huge coolers filled with (FREE) ice which was a rare and welcome offering!!

Couple in Iowa

People came out in every town we passed through to welcome riders, feed us and do anything they could for us! Met the nicest folks all week long! They were always interested to hear where riders were from :-) they offered their porches to sit on, shade trees to sit under and water to ride thru ... and slide thru

Pig bus

In front of vineyard with big party in back. 12 miles to pedal back to camp from here!

Retrieving r laundered clothes

In addition, they've been steamed by hot sun!!

Tent city in corn field

Moening sunrise