The day broke clear, cool, and calm. Sleeping outside was just what the doctor ordered, so I was refreshed and ready for the day.
John B and I rode together,and for the first 20+ miles we were on a little-used secondary road, so were able to ride abreast and converse. Very civilized.
Things changed when we hit Interstate 10. Would you believe it wasn't until this trip that I learned that even-numbered interstates go east-west, while odd-numbered run north-south. Never too old to .....
Anyhow, for the next forty-some miles we rode either directly on the interstate or the frontage road next to it, into headwinds that had been forecast to be between 20 and 30 mph. We had completed the first section in just over a hour. Riding time for the entire 76 miles was 6:10. Get the picture? Total elevation climb was 2414 ft.
I don't claim to be in the same league as those who ride long distance races, but I had a taste of what it must be like to stare at the white line at the side of the road and follow it mindlessly while the legs maintain a sustainable cadence.
The highlights of this day were the Subway Seafood Spectacular at Sierra Blanca, about 40 miles into the ride, and even better, the ice cream bar Paul handed me with 16 miles to go.
Camping at a KOA tonight. Tomorrow we ride to Fort Davis, 90+ miles away, and up in the mountains. Breakfast at 6:30 to enable an early start. No services after 20 miles, which could be interesting. It'll be a three water bottle day, refilled from the van for sure.
Monday is a rest day. It's time.
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