A bad day on the bike is better than a good day at the office and by all accounts this was a good day. No matter a few sore bottoms, some stiff legs, uncooperative wind most of the day, some drivers that liked to honk just as they pass, plenty of sun and having lunch at McDonalds. Being on the road with friends, a great support crew, plenty to drink, nice climbs, fantastic descents, and knowing you are doing something that makes a difference – makes it a good day on the bike. As for the five climbs I got skunked by Steve Kelly on Pinto (way to make it happen Steve), then Scott put it to me on both Pan Cake and Antelope Summits. Pan Cake was hotly contested. Scott wone by a couple of inches, then me then Steve Kelly back by a foot. My speed at the top was 22 MPH. Nice job Scott. I didn’t leave as much to chance on Robison and Connor and rolled up to the top alone. I love riding with this group. Everyone is riding strong, especially Jeff. Our average speed this year is as much as 4-5 MPH faster than previous years. Everyone is so pleasant and agreeable, even though we could all easily find something to grumble about. There have been no accidents or even flat tires. How great is that! The only little complaint (one we can do nothing about) is it didn’t snow or rain much last winter. And last year where we saw snow covered peaks, green grass, flowers, junipers, sagebrush and salt brush waking up from winter by putting on a new coat of green growth now we see brown hill sides, no flowers, and dull colored trees and shrubs. The distant hills even have a hazy blue color, probably from distant fires.
Today I ride for my good friend Paul. Paul is a lawyer whom I have know and worked with for many years. None of the lawyer jokes apply to Paul or to Joe, who is riding with us and is a lawyer as well. What classy people. I have worked with Paul on many trials over the years on tasks from the time the case was filed right though helping at trial. We have also spent a few hours trying to catch fish off the coast in Miami. Paul was diagnosed with prostrate cancer the first of the year. In his “lets get down to business” style he researched his options and “took care of business” and is now very pleased and almost fully recovered. I now look to Paul for sound advice on this subject.
All is good! Let’s beat Cancer!
Daily Stats:
Miles: 120
Avg speed: 19.6 MPH
Altitude: 5936 ft
Ride time: 6:08
Avg Heart Rate: 118 (I know when is this guy going to do a little work??)
KOM’s: 2 and happy to get them
Larry,
I don’t know how you keep such a low HR, but keep it up. I can’t keep a 118 average on my easiest rides. Must be the genetics. Glad to hear that everyone is riding hard and well. Keep up the good work and stay strong for today! May the Wind Gods be on your side (for once) through Utah.
don.
You are amazing DAD! However, I may not recognise your nut-brown self when I see you next! Day 4- is two pairs of shorts day (don’t be afraid, it’s brilliant, trust me)!! The avg HR of 114 IS low. I managed a trainer ride, holding my sholder still with no hands on the handle bars and was very pleased with an avg HR of 116 over 30 minutes.