Miles: 65 Climb: 510
Total Miles: 1,874
Today we continued the ride across Kansas, the long windy ride across Kansas. The first 27 miles of the morning were ideal. Overcast skies, smooth surface, no wind. The fields of corn and wheat were beautiful in the morning light. I joined a group of fast riders, Hans from the Netherlands, James and Wayne from Great Britian, and Tony from New Hampshire. As we left the first SAG stop, someone flipped the switch and turned on the headwind. Again. We had strong headwind from the east the last 38 miles, making it a tiring ride. We rode in a pace line to give each other drafts from the strong winds, and even though it nearly killed me, I made sure that I pulled at the same pace as the guys. I will pay for it tomorrow.
When we came into McPherson, the digital bank sign at the main intersection of town had a welcome message to the America By Bike Tour and they were scrolling pictures of us. It was great. We stopped at a little cafe for lunch and it was as if we were celebrities. The waitress said they'd been waiting for us. It was a blast and truly boosted our spirits. We got to the hotel before 1:00, in time to do laundry and take advantage of the warm weather to dry clothes outside rather than over the air conditioner. Several of us used the luggage racks as clothes lines to dry our clothes.
Every evening we have "Route Rap" which is when the ABB staff goes over the next day's route, giving details about the route, places of interest, and safety pointers. Tomorrow's ride is to the north, and then we will go east to Missouri. We get into St. Joesph, Missouri on July 3, and tonight they informed us that we will be part of a parade in the town. The ABB staff asked that we all wear the ABB Jersey that day. The ABB Jersey is red, white and blue with Stars and Stripes on the outline of the US. I think it is really funny that we're asking the Brits on this tour to wear the Stars and Stripes to celebrate the US independence. They seemed to be fine with the request. I guess by now there are no hard feelings, but we did have a lot of jokes about it.
Forecast for tomorrow: Wind from the north. I kid you not. I've given up on the hope for prevailing winds from the west.
Laura, been following your journey through Hannah's facebook posts and your blog. So proud of you. Stay safe and let us know if you travel through the Syracuse area. God speed.
ReplyDeletePhil
You are celebrities. If you came through Ann Arbor, I'd come out and ride with you but I wouldn't eat your PB&J. Wouldn't want to deprive you of your cycling fare.
ReplyDeleteDon't worry if the train slows down when a new engineer gets on board. The important thing is that the train keeps moving. It's okay if it slows down every once in a while. Probably, the rest of the cars will be grateful.
Make sure we get a picture of ya'll all kited out.
Getting closer every day.
Just jerseys for the parade? I would expect bike bells on your bars, streamers from the handles and sparklers in your hands. Enjoy the adoration of the crowds now that you've left the wild west and are back where people outnumber coyotes.
ReplyDeleteLaura, you are amazing! As Bennet said, don't worry about your pace when pulling. Any relief you can give is always appreciated. Stay safe.
ReplyDeleteJackie
Hi Laura, that is sooo cool about the bank sign!! I am sure you are getting stronger each day and happy to see you and others are starting to ride with different groups. That is part of the experience - to spend time with different riders on the road each day. So glad things continue to go well!!! Missing all! Carole
ReplyDeleteI'm really enjoying your daily updates, Laura! I would be interested to hear how you trained for the trip and if you think it prepared you well. Are there other riders who did not train appropriately, and if so, how they are faring? Thanks for taking us along on your journey.
ReplyDeleteToo funny about the parade. The Brits we made friends with in England were always good sports about the 4th. With friendships and humor on both sides it is all good. I miss my friends there! They let us celebrate in their parks with sparklers and even joined us for food and drinks :)
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ReplyDeleteI'm really enjoying following along with your journey - truly inspiring. Glad to see the Brits with you are such good sports! Wishing you a lovely remainder of your ride! Cheers! HIlary
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