Tuesday, May 13, 2008

Day 3, 102 miles, Indio to Blythe, CA

This was a tough day! Our first century ride and we were in the Mojave desert all day, on the freeway for most of the miles... Look on the map--I-10 East. The winds were howling again, this time from the north. It was a real challenge keeping both wheels on the road! A large number of people had to sag in, either due to the heat, the wind, or dehydration. I stayed the course, finishing at 4:00, with a 15 MPH average.

Desert riding is indeed a challenge. The advantage of the strong cross wind was its cooling effect, and that's the only advantage! I thought the desert would be flat, hot and dry. 2 out of 3, not bad... we had one major climb today. It was 11.4 miles long! I made it OK. The secret to riding in the desert is to eat and drink until you can't eat or drink any more, and cover up your skin. We were just about unrecognizable! If I can find the photo in my phone, I'll post it later.

I saw a couple of people blow off the road, including Scott, who is a big muscular guy!

People waiting for the computer and have to go to route rap for tomorrow's ride. Oh boy.

8 comments:

kaz said...

hi finally found some blogs . yours included...
i will following you from now on. keep up the great work and good luck. please say hi to my dad who is with you all george garner. thanks karen x

Anonymous said...

Good job Linda!
I rode 30 miles today and thought it was tough. Heck, just a drop in the bucket to your century! Keep going strong! Have a blast! Kat

Anonymous said...

That 40 mph yeaterday must have been scary! How long did you travel so fast!? Unfortunate about the two that had to drop the ride. How disappointing.
xoxox

Marie said...

Hi Linda !

Anonymous said...

Does anyone know how to cut and paste photos from Linda's blog? I want to post some in our family website. Thanks, Kat

Marie said...

Hi Again,

I have been trying to post a comment to you since you started this log. I guess I am just computer challenged sometimes. I am so excited for you! I look forward to reading your posts every morning when I get in to work. You are my heroine ! I wish I were in your shoes. Some day I will follow your footsteps. I have wanted to ride cross country since my first Dalmac in 1999. I wish you good tailwinds, mild days, tough Ischial Tuberosities, and much fun! I'll be reading, take care, Marie

The Husband said...

Fish and cats are fine. Husband misses you. Your a better cook. Losing weight. Working to much.

Anonymous said...

Linda you are awesome! Keep goin.! Love, Kat