We changed time zones when we crossed into New Mexico, yesterday. (Arizona doesn't observe daylight savings.) As a result, the start for today's ride was an hour later than normal, which allowed for a much more leisurely breakfast. I guess you could call today a recovery ride. The distance was only 68 miles, with an easy, steady climb up to the Continental Divide and then downhill into Grants. Most of today was spent on Route 66, with the exception of a ten mile stretch on Interstate 40. The shoulder on I-40 was awful - very rough, potholed, and covered in loose gravel. Needless to say, we were very glad to put those miles behind us. Although tempted, we didn't tinkle on the Continental Divide sign to see which direction it would flow. I rode most of the day with Peter and got into Grants early enough to grab some chocolate milk and a sub before checking into my room. We just beat a rain storm - some of the later riders weren't as lucky.
Rider of the day - Jack W (there are two Jacks on this trip) is from Israel. He's a tri-athlete and in great shape. Unfortunately, Jack is only going as far as Albuquerque; tomorrow is his last day.
Day 7. A recovery day. Due to unforeseen recent circumstances (seismic activity), our group leader made the decision to call off today's ride in favor of some quality rest time. However, not to worry. We are honing our riding skills with several hours of 2005 Tour de France viewing. I believe that the mandatory Tour viewing will play an essential role in maintaining the team's mental sharpness and "road focus." (As an aside, I notice that your team dynamic changes as riders join and leave the larger group. We ourselves are at a particularly crucial juncture, having recently been joined by a fourth rider. He is an older rider, and somewhat challenged in the height department [he tells me that rat terriers do not grow very tall], but he seems fit and has thrown himself into physical training with the other domestiques with a vengeance. I am certain he will be an asset to the team.)
ReplyDeleteSafe and happy trails tomorrow!
I don't know which is more entertaining, Jim. Pamela's flights of fancy or your blog. My question today is, now that you've crossed the continental divide is the rest of the trip down hill? Just wondering...:)
ReplyDeleteIn reply to Margaret, if you look at the map of the route, it is clear that it is uphill all the way.
ReplyDeleteLove to all
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Tinkling on the COntinental Divide sign reminds me of rushing to flush the toilet in Australia to see if the bowl drained backwards. As we were watching, it dawned on me, I hadn't looked to see which way it went at home, so I had no idea whether Oz was the opposite or not. Things you realize when you're too far from home to fix the problem...
ReplyDeleteDeco liked the peeing idea, for what it's worth. Happy Trails! B
Jim, How is route 66 scenery different in Arizona from New Mexico or is it the same, just wondering…Jaime
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