We've added a few new faces in Champaign and Indianapolis: Ron (TX), Richard (CT) and Jim (CO). These guys are all good riders, veterans of many tours as well as road and time trial races. They all joined the 'A' Team. Ron told me that he was actually in a race with Lance Armstrong in 1993. He did point out that Lance had showered and was probably sucking down his second brew by the time he crossed the finish line. Ron also gave us a photo tip that he learned from the Italians when he was touring in Tuscany last year: always unsnap your helmet strap and suck in your gut. He didn't need to tell us that.
The weather here this morning was hot and humid, eventually working its way into the 90's. I haven't been talking about the wind lately but, trust me, it has not been our friend. Today was also a moderate climbing day, ranging from rollers to a few real challenges.
Riding out of Indy
Heading toward a bridge crossing, leading out of Indy
You've probably noticed the same rider appearing in most of my photos and videos. That would be Tom. When I shoot photos and videos, I have to remove the camera from my jersey pocket, turn it on, toggle between video and still, and then take the photo or video. This is best done without a rider on your wheel. For the same reason, I suspect that I'm in a good number of Tom's photos.
For those of you who have been following my blog since the start, you know by this time that I have a real fascination with trains, particularly in open country. I have been trying to capture some video footage and today it finally came together. There are four brief videos. I promise not to do it again. Turn up the speakers on your computer.
We had a stretch of road construction (12 miles) that was somewhat harrowing in that gravel was spread on the road, in preparation for re-surfacing. Any loose material, e.g. gravel, sand etc., is perilous to road bikes with their very narrow, high pressure tires and generally twitchy dispositions. We tried to find passable "tracks" on the road and called out approaching hazards to the riders behind us, as we always do.
We were traveling in Amish country today, hoping to come up on a horse drawn buggy. Alas, all we found was evidence of the horse.
Total Miles: 84 Total Vertical Climb: 3100 ft.
Your Mama and I are meandering down to Marysville. See you tomorrow. Loved the trains...a little too close for my nerves.
ReplyDeleteLove you, Diana
Love the photo tip from Ron, although I doubt the actual presence of a 'gut' on anyone who has biked nearly 3000 miles! Your camera skills are even more impressive than I imagined, worrisome, yet impressive. Wish I could see you for Father's Day but I'll be thinking of you and sending my best :) Talk to you tomorrow and love you!
ReplyDeletehave fun today seeing your mom and diana.im sure it will be a special day.maybee after this trip is over you could ride across the country by jumping in empty train freight cars.it would be awhole lot easier trip then the one your doing now. steve
ReplyDeleteThe Zyrek's wish you a wonderful Father's Day!!! May you only have a tailwind and smooth roads.
ReplyDeleteHappy Fathers Day big brother. Neat videos of the train,I had my earphones on my iPad and had the sound turned up and wow,it was way loud,pretty cool.
ReplyDeleteHi Mike...we are wishing you a wonderful Father's Day...how nice dear Diana and mom will be with you : )
ReplyDeletelove ya bunches, Mary Therese
Mike: Was able to get caught up with your travels over the last few days. From Coyote blood to horse pucky;cattle guards to bridges;truck debris to construction rubble, you keep on pedaling.
ReplyDeleteAs you near the end, the phrase "there is a light at the end of the tunnel and it is not a train" came to mind. But then, looking at your videos, that would appear to be a disappointment to you.
Happy Fathers Day!