Ride Update: I have ridden 2,635 miles (82% of the total), climbed 80,492'. I have 572 miles/7 days left to go.
Today's ride was uneventful, pleasant enough and short- just 57 miles. The route took us through rolling hills and corn and dairy operations as we polished off what remained of eastern Wisconsin. At the end of the abbreviated day (and following a civilized 9:00AM start time) we were deposited in Manitowoc- on the western shores of Lake Michigan.
We actually hit the lake shore about 10 miles south of town and skirted along the edge of the lake-still a ways in the distance.The riders were anxious to get started this morning as there was an hour delay between the end of breakfast and load time. So by 9:00, the horses were ready to leave the barn and polish off the "junior" ride we had in front of us. The weather was a carbon copy of yesterday- mild temps, 90% sunshine, low humidity- just plain perfect.
Following a 300' climb at mile 5, the Millers and I did the rollers and then I noticed that Mike had ridden off and I decided to find him. After passing several riders and small groups I found that he was drafting Jim and Dotties tandem and with some considerable effort, I finally caught them. After hanging on behind Mike, I found out why it took an effort to get to them- these fools were storming- especially on the downhills. The tandem would crest a hill and then like a runaway dumptruck, it would accelerate downhill. I had to work to get the early jump going downhill and then had to put some effort into staying on their tail going downhill- but man we were scootin'.
After a rest stop, the Millers reformed with Joel, Allison, Gary and me and we proceeded to catch a tailwind, use it to our full advantage and to drop Gary, who was a) back among us, and b) sick. At the sag at mile 30, I suggested that we help Gary and with all in agreement, we slowed the motors down and the Angels of Mercy pulled him into Manitowoc. Gary declined our offer of Meals on Wheels.
Tomorrow, technically a rest day, is the end of Wisconsin, our ferry ride across Lake Michigan and our entry to Michigan. We'll ride about 7 miles and start late at that, but access to bike shops, laundry facilities and the like are nil. The ferry ride will be interesting, but I suspect I'll be bored to tears. The following day, the start of my final full leg, will be a long one- 117 miles and our last century. The climbing is over for me, so headwinds and heat are the only boogie men I need to worry about.
I continue to feel great- no health issues at this point and I am confident that, barring a mishap, this ride is in the bag.
