Everybody was feeling pretty beat up this morning from yesterday's 109 miles in the high desert with major climbing tossed in for good measure. It was in this weakened condition that we took on what was to be quite possibly the most challenging day so far.
As we left New Mexico, we also left behind the mountains, dramatic rock formations and a fair amount of trees. While we all agreed that NM kicked our collective butts (which are already in bad enough shape), we also believed that it yielded dividends commensurate with the price we had to pay.
Early morning photo as we were working our way toward Texas.
Going up a slight rise in eastern NM; nothing too exciting
Diana drove to the first SAG stop, about 30 miles out of Tucumcari, for a final farewell. At dinner tonight, several people mentioned how much they are going to miss her sunny disposition and how well she meshed with the group.
Diana left the SAG stop and began the long drive back to Albuquerque for her evening flight back to Detroit. Gonna miss her.
The story of the day was starting to develop early with increasing (14 - 16 mph) winds coming out of the NE, right on our nose. This combined with a constantly undulating terrain, temp at 92 degrees, and a exhausted group from the day before made for a long day.
The windmill became the symbol of our day's riding woes
We crossed into Texas late in the morning.
Tom (CA), John (UK), MK, Mike (CA), Craig (CO)
We were advised to be on our best behavior.
Some shots of Texas Panhandle landscape. Great for cows, not so exciting for humans. I realize that there are parts of TX that are much different than the Panhandle.
As we came into Dalhart, it was amazing the number of cattle and the size of the ranches and corrals.
One of many
Total Miles: 96 Total Vertical Climb: 2200 ft.
Mike,
ReplyDeleteJust arrived home (2AM)...(1AM)your time.On my way back to Albuquerque, I travelled many of the same roads that you covered by bike in the last few days. Hard to believe, but without the bikers, the roads with the steep grades and no shoulders appeared more intimidating. I loved the experience and the great group of people. Safe travels to all and no flat tires. The mornings will be pretty uneventful around here, without all the clacking of shoes, pumping up of tires, and cheering on the riders. Love you, Diana
Mike: Congrats on the 1000 mile mark. A truly great achievement in and of itself, without heat, climbs and debris. You look healthy and happy in all of the pictures.
ReplyDeleteMary and I are really thrilled for you. And thanks again for the pictures and stories. We look forward to them every day.