I had a difficult time paring the photos to four today (internet speed is slow so it takes a while to blog). There were enormous changes in the environment we saw in our 101 miles cycling today. For the day, I averaged an astounding 19 mph.
We woke to snow, 27 degrees and strong winds from the south...can't ride in that. By 10:00, conditions were evolving to our advantage. Ron & I rolled out at 11:00 with cloudy, but dry conditions, 45 degrees and a slight tailwind. Within one mile, the road turned a little left and we caught the tradewinds riding 22 effortless miles in under an hour. Rich & John joined us and the terrain changed from sagebrush to alkali lakes and soaring cliffs dusted with snow...it was spectacular to see. There is very little traffic and everybody passed with a wide berth...except a state trooper.
Then we transitioned to the Oregon Outback; grasslands and valleys. We spotted about 30 antelope feeding, a low flying red-tail hawk and John had two coyotes run in front of him. A cold climb brought us into to Lakeview, where John & Zach caught their ride home. I am really gonna miss my friends; afterall, they planned this event and it won't be the same without them.
I must admit, it is kind of fun to be 'irresponsible' and do something like this. I reccommend anyone reading this to quit wishing and pursue what you have dreamed about doing. It is very rewarding.
