Back at the hostel, Mitch gave us directions to get back on the official bike route and out of town. Linda rode the first section in Tempe yesterday and provided helpful tips.
Today was definitely a challenge: 91 miles and about 5200 feet of climbing. Most riders left at 6:30 am to avoid traffic and get an early start given the long day. Andre had loaded his GPS with the bike route co-ordinates, and led us through Phoenix, Tempe and Mesa. Traffic was light and traffic lights were friendly, so we made good time. In a photo, Bob Pedersen shows we graduated to a new map for section 2 at Tempe.
Past Mesa we noticed cactus in bloom and new orange-colored flowers along the road (see photos, with bike glove for scale). We stopped at a Safeway for a food break. Bob Plant checked out the cheese aisle, looking for cheese he personally had packaged. He found cheese packages from Marathon, his home town (see photo). Julie showed us her energy secret: dark chocolate!
Two days ago and again today, several riders met Dave White, a unicyclist who is also riding the Southern Tier route. His bike has two gears and a three-foot wheel. Puts our efforts in perspective! Today Bob Plant and I met the lady driving Dave's support vehicle (see photo). Dave's blog is http://unicyclingsailor.com. He is riding for ALS research.
The last half of today's ride was tough. After Florence Junction we had about 40 miles of mostly uphill with 7% grade at times. Road shoulders came and went; mesquite bushes caught on our arms; and my eyes hurt from the salt in sweat (the headband was overwhelmed). Drank the equivalent of seven bottles of water / gatorade for the day. My thighs and posterior were stiff after the day off. It was a relief to get out of the small (front) ring after the grade softened. Fortunately the last few miles into Globe were downhill or level.
The first riders to finish were Linda, Carol and Julie. They were really cranking.
For dinner Linda and Ken made stir-fry shrimp, rice and a salad for dinner (see photo of Linda). Dessert was dense mega-brownies. After dark Andre, Bob Pedersen, Bob G and (not pictured) Julie, Rhodri, Flynn and I enjoyed a fire while it cooled off.
Unfortunately Dick had an accident today and broke a hand. He won't be able to continue riding. We are all sorry he has to leave, particularly because he is an experienced tour rider and is certainly strong enough to go the distance.
Tomorrow should be easier, about 80 miles of rollers. Julie promises a HOT TUB at the campground! Stay tuned.
Bruce
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