Today was déjà vu all over again. The difference was the first 38 miles were either on the interstate or the frontage road. The last 52 were on a secondary road to Fort Davis.
After yesterday's somewhat gruelling ride, I chose to hang back, help pack up the gear, and ride sweep with Paul. The first part of the ride went well, as we were somewhat pushed along by a strong crosswind. However, once we made the turn toward Fort Davis, it turned into the trip from hell. The crosswind became a headwind, and speeds were reduced to as low as 5 mph. Once again, it was unrelenting, and extremely frustrating. I seem to have spent most of that part of the ride in my Granny gear, even when going downhill. Total elevation climb was 5414 feet.
Paul and I left camp at 8:30, and reached the turn off point by noon. We had had a couple of rest/change/food stops along the way. I left Paul at the turn, since he had to ride with the slowest member of the group whom we had reached. I arrived at Fort Davis at 6:00. Paul and the other member were in at 8:00. Four others realized they were going to be in late, ie 7-ish, and chose to be picked up by the van.
Two things kept me going; stubbornness and a concept that had worked on the previous day's ride. I broke the 52 miles into 5-mile segments. Every five miles I stopped, got off the bike, had something to eat and some water, and then went on. So, instead of worrying about the big picture, I just counted off the miles to the next break. It also helped that Nicole was handy with the van and a water supply. I went through seven bottles over the 52 miles.
Highlights: Nicole pouring ice-cold mochas at the 40 mile mark, and handing me a cold Coke at 65 miles.
Now we have a rest day. My legs are leaden, my butt's a bit sore, time for some R&R.
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