I love California

Last night, Tom Ryan gave me a high five. The force re injured my shoulder and wrist.

One of our riders, Darrell (see below) is leaving tomorrow morning., He is riding from Los Angeles to Flagstaff. He is a neurologist. He is from Tennessee. I feel a little sorry for him as everyone is asking him questions about their ailments. Darrell told me he would like to ride parts of the tour each year. Today is his 28Th wedding anniversary. Unfortunately, Darrell's chain broke today and he could not complete all of the ride. Tonight we will go out to say good-bye to Darrell.

Last night I slept for 7 hours which is the most on this tour. Today we gathered at the hotel entrance around 7:00. Unfortunately, Hank could not ride today as he had chain problems and a new chain could not be located for him. I have heard that they have located a new chain for him and he will be able to ride on Monday.

Most of today's ride was uphill.

We started out and proceeded to ride about 13 miles. After a 1.2 mile climb we reached Sedona.
Apparently, Sedona has raised very unusual pigs.

And below is probably the reason.

After Sedona we biked to Flagstaff. This is a mostly 15 mile ride which is uphill. During this time, Harry screams "I love California". Harry - You do know we are in Arizona ? The last 2.2 miles are 4 level of switchbacks. I left my team for awhile as my bike is a little heavier and once I gain momentum I do not like to stop. Below is a video and a photo of me at the top after completing around 35 miles.

We rode another 10 miles to the hotel.

Cottonwood, AZ - Flagstaff, AZ

Total Miles 46.637

Ave. MPH 11.3

Actual riding time 4:06:051

Let Hotel 7:15

Arrive Hotel 2:20

I told many people who asked me whether I could do this ride to check after the first week. I have rode every mile so far. (Harry even made us go back to where we took the picture of the pigs as we had walked our bikes to the restaurant from the pig picture and he wanted to make sure we rode all of the miles.) My answer now is so far, so good. However, I will say that I have learned of all different body parts that I never knew existed that could be hurt besides my legs.

Tomorrow is our first rest day. We have 5 of these days. I am not sure whether I will update the blog.