tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-74086380971530480822024-03-13T04:30:51.143-07:00TransAmCyclistsMichael Jack & Tom Brammeld from the UK are cycling the Trans-America Trail! The TranAm is a 4,234 mile coast to coast cycle across the USA from Astoria, Oregon to Yorktown, Virginia. The 90 day journey on touring bicycles will pass through 10 states & 4 time zones.
We are entirely self sufficient on the trip, carrying everything on the bikes including tents and sleeping bags! The aim is to cover 55 miles a day, 6 days a week! Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15084774676034217681noreply@blogger.comBlogger7125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7408638097153048082.post-22433952664682117112013-10-30T14:47:00.000-07:002013-10-30T14:51:54.074-07:00We made it!!!!<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"></span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Day 67 Berea to Boonville 49.86 miles cycled,
3:47.37 time on the bike, 12.7mph average speed <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">
Day 68 Boonville to Hindman 61.3 miles, 5:14.09, 11.7 ave <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Day
69 Hindman to Lookout 52.41 miles, 4:16.54, 12.2 ave <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Day
70 Lookout to Rodedale 63.76 miles, 5:31.04, 11.5 ave<br />
Day 71 Rosedale to Cedar Springs/Rural retreat 80.51 miles, 6:28.26, 12.4 mph
ave <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Day 72 Rural retreat to
Christiansburg 77.57 miles, 6:00.02, 12.9 mph ave <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Day 73 Day Off <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Day
74 Christiansburg to Troutville 45.9 miles, 3:17.24, 13.9 ave<br />
Day 75 Troutville to Viseuvias 52.41 miles, 3:58.17, 13.2 ave <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Day 76 Viseuvias To
Charlottesville 76.08 miles, 6:34.22, 11.5 ave<br />
Day 77 Charlottesville to Mineral 52.93 miles, 3:59.32, 13.2 ave <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Day
78 Mineral to Glendale 75.08 miles, 5:26.12, 13.8 ave <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span></span></o:p></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p><span style="font-family: "Calibri","sans-serif"; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 115%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;">Day
79 Glendale to Yorktown!!! 66.82 miles, 5:10.36, 12.9 ave</span></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Its been nearly a two months since we got back from
America, I would like to say the delay has been because i was taking the opportunity
to have a period of reflection but its really just been because real life is
pretty busy!</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Its a shame that it all seems such a long time ago
already, it seems like a different life in some respects. I haven't had time to
go through the photographs yet which i’m sure will bring it all flooding back,
i am excited about getting round to doing this.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">I have been asked several times ‘how was it?’ ‘What
was best bit?’ and other similar questions. They are all very difficult to
answer. It was such a diverse trip with so many highs, some lows and a whole
array of experiences. The answer i normally give is ‘it was amazing’, probably not
sufficient for a 79 day cycle.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>In truth
I couldn't pick one moment, there was so many incredible experiences from
awe inspiring views, to amazing accommodation at the end of a bad day,
surprising generosity, eating what i like without weight gain and so many
other elements that made a trip of lifetime.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">I was ready to finish (my bike was definitely
ready to finish), 79 days is a long time cycling and living out of a couple of
bags. Also it is a long time to be spending with one individual, although that
said Tom and I spent 90 days together and didn't have a single proper falling
out. I don't think many people could do that, hats off to the people we met who
were doing it with their partners....that must be true love or more likely
insanity.</span><span style="font-family: "Times New Roman","serif"; font-size: 12pt; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB;"><o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
<br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;">Overall it is certainly a trip i would recommend.
Small town America is a very friendly place to be, just under 4,500 miles and
not once did i feel anything but safe. The roads are on the whole very quiet,
not one incident where i genuinely felt in danger from other road users. We
seen so much its difficult to recall it all, varied landscapes, people,
cultures, roads, weather, the trip which had been on the wish list for nearly
ten years certainly did not disappoint.</span></span></div>
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Oh how i miss the Chili, sweetcorn and pasta. I don't miss the mosquitoes though. Good times.<br />
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A nice early start, treated to a stunning sunrise and misty lake.</div>
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We were having a nap at a Post Office in Troutville when Michael and his daughter came up to us and asked us if we would like to stay with them! It would be unbelievable/too good to be true but on this trip it was far less of a shock. Well, we of course took Michael up on his kind offer. Michael, his wife Paige (also in the picture with Tom), two daughters and 4 dogs made us feel very welcome! What a fantastic evening once again. We went on to stay with Michael and Paige's daughter Caitlin in Newport News, such lovely people who love having hikers and cyclists to stay.</div>
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The last big climb complete. The climb up to the blue ridge parkway was one of the single biggest climbs of the trip. It wasn't too bad, i think it would be more of a challenge for those starting from the East, thankfully we were pretty fit by nowand it wasn't too bad at all. A great feeling to know the last climb was complete. The East of the country contained more climbing than the West despite significantly less altitude.</div>
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The view coming down the blue ridge mountains, a beautiful cycle. A very long descent made better knowing there was no more ups!</div>
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We camped at the Glendale fire station, we used their showers and spoke with the guys there. As always a very friendly bunch. We woke in the morning to find a note attached to my bike thanking us for staying with them!!! I'm pretty sure it should have been the other way around.</div>
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Last nights accommodation, a beautiful church, a great way to spend our night before our last days cycling.</div>
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Corn fields and a serious pose</div>
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Yeeha! We made it, the last days cycling was an absolute joy along the federal highway, absolutely stunning. Such a great way to finish. It was flat too which we were grateful for, i had 3 gears left working on my bike, no back breaks and badly buckled wheel.<br />
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The York Town memorial, the memorial depicts Washington's victory and the US's ultimate Independence from the pesky Brits. (i think that is what it is all about, doing this from memory)<br />
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Hello Atlantic. What a feeling. This is 'pre-unveiling of the milky white bodies' picture. We got more strange looks once we took our tops off than we did when we walked in with the bikes. Ridiculous tans.</div>
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The church in York Town allowed us to stay in the 'church house' for two nights when we finished. It was a three bedroom house on three levels within walking distance of the pub and you can see the ocean from the door. Incredible. Perfect end to a fantastic trip!!!!! We moved on for 7 days holiday in Virginia, DC & Phillie after this. Immense.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15084774676034217681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7408638097153048082.post-64475517916282628502013-08-19T15:30:00.001-07:002013-08-19T18:36:17.843-07:00Angry dogs, prayers, steep hills, stormy weather, Mammoth caves andKentucky fried chicken<div style="text-align: left;">
Day 50 Pittsburg to Everton time on bike 4 hrs 54 mins, 64.02 miles, 13.0 mph average</div>
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Day 51 Everton to Marshfield 4:31.50, 55.03 miles, 12.1 mph ave</div>
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Day 52 Marshfield to Houston 5:12.58, 67.63 miles, 12.9 mph ave </div>
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Day 53 Houston to Ellington 5:32.46, 69.21 miles, 12.5 mph ave</div>
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Day 54 Ellington to Farmington 4:37.22, <span style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">Day 55 impromptu day off in Farmington. The 'cycle only' hostel was too good to leave</span></div><div style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">Day 56 Farmington to Chester 3:29.35, 47.79 miles, 13.6 mph ave</div><div style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">Day 57 Chester to Carbondale 2:52.22, 40.65 miles, 14.1 mph ave</div><div style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">Day 58 day off, a lazy few days but needed a bit of a break, a bit scunnered with the bike</div><div style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">Day 59 Carbondale to Eddieville 4:35.43, 60.89 miles, 13.2 mph ave</div><div style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">Day 60 Eddieville to Sebree 6:44.34, 88.05 miles, 13.0 mph average</div><div style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">Day 61 Sebree to Falls of Rough 5:51.57, 75.65 miles, 12.9 mph average</div><div style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">Day 62 Falls of Rough to Mammoth Cave</div><div style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">7:24.19, 92.92 miles, 12.5 mph average</div><div style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">Day 63 Mammoth Cave to Hodgenville 3:55.53, 50.29 miles, 12.7 mph average</div><div style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">Day 64 Hodgenville to Chimney Rock RV camp 7:25.48, 97.48 miles, 13.1 mph average</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="font-family: Noteworthy; font-size: 18px; line-height: 24px; text-align: -webkit-auto; -webkit-tap-highlight-color: rgba(26, 26, 26, 0.292969); -webkit-composition-fill-color: rgba(130, 98, 83, 0.0976563); -webkit-composition-frame-color: rgba(191, 107, 82, 0.496094); -webkit-text-size-adjust: auto; ">Day 65 Chimney Rock RV park to Berea 3:21.48, 40.39 miles, 12.0 mph average ave</div></div>
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We are currently in Berea, KY. We are 3 days or so from Virginia which is our last state. Approximately 700 miles/2 weeks to go on the Transam! The last two weeks or so has thrown up so much. We left Kansas to enter Missouri, then Illinois and now Kentucky. Every state is very different, it is very difficult to begin to talk about what we have experienced, the photos below hopefully give a snap shot.</div>
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The kindness continues, we stopped for lunch in a small village in Illinois, just as Tom was going up to pay (I know sounds unlikely) the cashier advised him that the lady in front had paid for our meal. Tom ensures me he wasnt giving her or her husband the eye during lunch, it was just an act of kindness. We have also been offered places to stay, we have been given lots of tomatoes and generally just continue to be met with such unbelievable kindness.</div>
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Its fair to say by the time we finish the trip we will have
been faced with every type of weather (with the exception of snow, although we
have had hail) that there is on offer.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Through Missoula (nicknamed Misery by some locals and myself at times)
we had consistent thunder storms.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Both
our tents are pretty good, far better than most of the other touring cyclists
but unfortunately they aren’t self supporting so cannot be pitched without
pegging down.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Most of the other cyclists
during the weeks of storms (flash flooding, record breaking rain in Missoula) have pitched within band stands on the concrete plinths
to stay out of the rain, we don’t have that luxury.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Not a big problem because our tents are good but unfortunately on one occasion there had been so much rain during the night
the water came from underneath and our stuff was swimming in the morning…..motel
time the next day!<br>
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The weather improved somewhat for Kentucky, the humidity massively reduced and the temperature has been in the mid 20’s making for
some fantastic cycling conditions.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>We are now in
mid Kentucky and so far it is one of our favorite states for cycling, the cycling is on quiet roads flanked by huge corn fields on the whole.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br>
The one thing everyone has talked about in relation
to Kentucky is the dogs!<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>So far it hasn’t
been too bad, we have been chased a lot and I had my pannier bags bitten by one
dog but all in all nothing to savage. We have nearly witnessed a couple of dogs
being hit by cars as they focus on getting us, thankfully some emergency
stops by the cars has prevented canine road kill.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I think it will get worse before it gets better,<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>Eastern Kentucky is said to be
less affluent, trailer type homes with no enclosed gardens so dogs roaming
free.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> I will strap a steak to the back of Tom's bike and see what happens.</span><br>
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We have less than 1,000 miles to go now including the added
250m miles to DC.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The bikes are making
all sorts of noises now. The brakes kind of work and are complete with loud squeaking although this is actually of a benefit in scaring off dogs. The gears have a mind of their
own but all in all they on the most part seem to work.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>If the bikes
see us to Yorktown, VA our original finish then we will be happy…anything
after that is a bonus and we can always hitch to DC.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>I reckon if I take the bike into a bike shop
it may be written off and funds are running a bit low to replace every moving
part.</div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;"><br></div><div class="MsoNormal" style="text-align: left;">One other new sight on the roads in Kentucky is a number of Amish people. We have passed a few horses and carts on the main roads full of children no older than 8 years old. Great to over take some other road users! That said we have also seen them in trucks and in gas stations buying junk food, the movie Kingpin obviously taught me nothing! </div>
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State #7....happy to get out of Kansas. Kansas was nice in its own unique way but i didnt like the fact our days cycling was so heavily influenced by the weather. I was also a little disappointed we didnt get one tail wind, that said the head winds could have been worse! In that sense we were kind of fortunate. We have met so many people who had easily cycled 130 miles or so in Kansas or completed 3 or 4 successive century days because they had a wind, it is so flat it would be easily done. Och well. </div>
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Entering the Ozarks. Our first hills in a while. The Ozarks are small in height but steep in gradient. It is described in our maps as a self propelled roller coaster, a fine description although a roller coaster evokes thoughts of fun.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Illinois - This was a campsite 'social room' which doubled up as the community church. The campsite owner allowed us to sleep in there instead of camping due to the storms. There was one bed shown in the background. We flipped for it (contrary to popular belief sharing would be a bit too much), needless to say Tom won and i slept on the concrete on my self deflating air bed. The flys buzzing around assisted with the nice nights sleep.</td></tr>
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Crossing from Illinois to Kentucky. No bridge across the Ohio river at our point of crossing. I was a bit disappointed at the duration of the boat trip. It was about 10 minutes including loading and unloading, i was hoping the boat was going to take us 20 miles or so.</div>
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Yeeha. State #9. Fried chicken, mullets and loose dogs. </div>
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This is the church we stayed at in Sebree. The best place we have stayed in. There was a bed and a shower too as well as a large screen tv complete with DVD player. If that wasn't good enough we were invited into the Pastors house (along with 3 other cyclists traveling West who also stayed there) where the pastors wife cooked us the most amazing meal. We said grace and joined hands for prayer at the end. I'm not a religious man but prayer is the ideal opportunity to fill your pockets with the remaining food. I didnt get the giggles during grace and the prayers.</div>
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The outside of the Sebree church. Difficult place to leave and we definitely would have stayed if we hadnt have had a few lazy days a couple of days previously.</div>
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Back into the swing of things camping. We actually missed our rice, green beans, chilli combination! </div>
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Another bridgeless river and a ferry crossing (20 metres or so), this was entering the mammoth cave national park. The 'Mammoth Cave Loop' is a 87 mile loop which is an optional extra on the TransAmerica. Tom and i decided (we must have been feeling fresh) we would do it as we have a few days to spare. A beautiful cycle, so beautiful that Tom got us deliberately lost twice giving us a nice wee 15 mile extra. Cheers Tom.</div>
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Mammoth Cave, the longest cave network in the world and a UNESCO world heritage site. We only ventured in for a tour of approximately 1/2 mile,</div><div style="text-align: center;">the cave extends over 400 miles and new parts are being discovered all the time. Graded 'moderate' difficult because of the 80 steps......i wont say anymore. Fascinating place and well worth the extra 87 miles (plus Toms bonus miles....not still annoyed)</div>
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We decided we havent been taking enough photos. Kansas, Missouri, Illinois and to an extent Kentucky havent thrown up the same picturesque sites as the more Western States. Beautiful and interesting in their own right, we just havent taken too many photos! We also on this day passed through our final time zone (Central to Eastern), only 5 hours behind now.</div>
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Kentucky - We passed the birthplace of Lincoln, president and vampire hunter. Decent bloke by all accounts.</div>
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Kentucky - We camped at the back of high school ball park one night and on the adjacent field there was a high school football match going on so we stopped by for a look. I managed to negotiate us free access by saying Tom was a high school kid from the UK hoping to make it in the US as a 'receiver' an american football term i believe. The American high school talent on show was fantastic, the game was pretty poor.</div>
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The home of Bourbon in Kentucky. A huge distillery on our route, we stopped in for a tour and some tasting. I'm not sure they do it on 'Le Tour' but a whiskey half way through a 97 mile cycle is just what you need, especially in the heat. It was actually really interesting, i managed to hold back on saying Bourbon is just a poor mans whiskey.</div>
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<br>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15084774676034217681noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7408638097153048082.post-69790896680612796572013-08-02T12:54:00.003-07:002013-08-02T18:13:00.416-07:00Half way and beyond...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Hello, its been a while. Apologies, my excuses are the smart phone has killed the internet cafe and Kansas Libraries have funny opening hours. </div>
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Half way has been and gone since the last update.</div>
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We have left Wyoming, cycled through Colorado and we are currently on the Kansas/Missouri border.</div>
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In Wyoming we continued to cycle at altitude through mountain dessert, still every bit the wild west. Not a lot of people, several deserted 'Ghost Towns' mainly from the gold rush era. The landscape was relatively bland in comparison to the magnificent scenery of the Tetons and Yellowstone and the preceding states. </div>
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Colorado and the Rocky mountains were absolutely stunning, some of the best cycling of the trip so far. We gained altitude culminating in the highest point of the trip - The Hoosier Pass at 11,542ft, thankfully we were pretty well acclimatised so it didnt seem to effect us.</div>
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After this we had some awesome descents which took us into the very flat Eastern Colorado which was a warm up for the even flatter Kansas.</div>
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The weather in Wyoming and Easter Colorado continued to be very hot (I cant wait for winter), unusually though Kansas has been very wet. We had 8 inches of rain in two days which is pretty much unheard off for a state which has apparently been in a drought for the past 3 years. </div>
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Some pretty frightening lightning storms accompanied the rain which has been an experience to cycle through, someone needs to tell Tom that it isn't safer hiding under trees if trying to avoid lightning. A couple of flood induced diversions ensued also, a baw ache at the time but it all adds to the experience!</div>
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Photos and further explanation below.</div>
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The stats:</div>
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Day 30 - Ddebois to Lander 5hrs 08mins 28secs on bike, 74.94 miles, 14.5mph average </div>
Day 31 - Lander to Jeffrey City 4:26.49 on bike, 58.17miles, 13mph average<br>
Day 32 - Jeffrey city to Rawlins 5:35.02 on bike, 74.3miles, 13.3mph average<br>
Day 33- Rawlins to Riverside 4:31.11 on bike, 62.71 miles, 13.8mph average<br>
Day 34- Riverside to Walden 3:48.46 on bike, 49.09miles, 12.8mph average<br>
Day 35 - Walden to Kremmling 5:33.23 on bike, 81.01 miles, 14.5mph average<br>
Day 36 - Kremmling to Breckenridge 5:13.24 on the bike, 64.05 miles, 12.2mph average<br>
Day 37 - Breckinridge to Guffey 4:52.15 on the bike, 67.99 miles, 13.9mph average<br>
Day 38 - Guffey to Pueblo 5:41.56 on the bike, 85.21 miles, 14.9mph average <br>
Day 39 - Day Off in Pueblo, Tom still cant finish a large Dominos pizza<br>
Day 40 - Pueblo to Ordway 3:56.24 on bike, 51.08miles, 12.9mph average <br>
Day 41 - Ordway to Sheridan Lake 6:12.05 on bike, 91.05 miles, 14.6mph average<br>
Day 42 - Sheridan Lake to Scott City 5:59.44 on bike, 75.98 miles, 12.6mph average<br>
Day 43 - Scott City to Bezine 6:39.10 on bike, 67.04 miles, 10.0 mph average<br>
Day 44 - Bezine to Larned 4:35.13 on bike, 52.48 miles, 11.4mph average<br>
Day 45-Larned to Hutchinson 5:37.12 on bike, 73.11 miles, 13.0mph average<br>
Day 46 - Hutchinson to Cassody 6:03.35 on bike, 77.8 miles, 12.8 mph average<br>
Day 47 - Cassody to Coyville 4:53.17 on bike, 66.96 miles, 13.7mph average<br>
Day 48 - Coyville to Pittsburg 6:36.48 on bike, 89.4 miles, 13.5mph average<br>
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<strong>NB</strong> on Day 48, Tom cycled a further 10.6 miles around Pittsburg to ensure he got a 100mph day, whoever made the bet must now pay up.</div>
Day 49 - Day off Pittsburg<br>
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The view leaving Debois was stunning. We stopped at an Indian reservation about 20 miles after leaving Debois, a guy came up to me and asked me if i liked Debois, i replied 'yes, very nice' before i realised what i walked into. Prick.</div>
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Tom insisted on taking a photo of me on this occasion, he said i looked really nice.</div>
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Typical camping scene, kit explosion. If i was to hazard a guess I would say Chili and Pasta was on the menu with sweetcorn and/or green beans.</div>
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Proper cowboy pose in the Wild West, more Brokeback than John Wayne though.<br>
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The stars and stripes flying proudly on Tom's bike. Tom has mentioned many times how he wished he had been born an American</div>
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Jeffrey City, one of many 'Ghost towns' in Wyoming. This town within the last 30 years was booming with over 3,000 people, a new school was built in the 80's which in its prime had around 600 attendees. Jeffrey City was a Uranium mining town. When the Uranium industry collapsed in the US the town was vacated over night, there are lots of empty buildings, i believe about 50 people now reside there, very creepy. Liquor store wasnt open, darn it.<br>
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Continental Divide #lost count, still enthusiastic though, you got to give the guys some credit.<br>
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Some sight seeing, <span class="st">Wyoming State Penitentiary opened in 1901</span>. It was a very interesting place if not a little eerie.</div>
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A low budget movie titled “Prison” was filmed on location. The movie was one of Viggo Mortensen’s first and featured several other well known actors. Significant damage was done to the prison grounds during filming because it had yet to be considered a historic site, the walls still stained with fake blood etc. The Gas Chamber and Stalls where quite a few people were executed over the years remain intact though.</div>
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Wyoming and Tom. State #4 (although this seems in the wrong order, we took this when entering Colorado as the sign was better than the one within Yellowstone)</div>
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Spelt colourful wrong, other than that the photo is flawless. State #5.<br>
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We visited a Rodeo whilst in Breckenridge, an authentic American experience. A bit cruel for my liking but the Americans seem to be all over it! That said they love Baseball.</div>
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Breckenridge was one of the best places we have stayed, it is a winter ski resort so very cool (and expensive). We would have liked to have stayed longer but were also keen to get going with the Hoosier Pass looming.</div>
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Highest point of the trip, we reached the 11,524 feet pass on the last day of the Tour de France. Many road users commented on how i reminded them of Chris Froome in the way i tackled the mountain. The climb was beautiful and the downhill was class too.<br>
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This was our accommodation in Guffey, Colorado. The gentleman (Bill) owned a lot of land which was full of cattle skeletons, old buildings, wrecked cars etc. He let some of the buildings out to cyclists and has done for a good few decades. It was a very unique place, Tom put some of the external shots on twitter.</div>
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Kansas........I might have something nice to say about it if the wind blew East. It doesn't though so i haven't. Dorothy your shoes are shit. OK so perhaps a bit harsh. The people were incredibly kind and friendly, the weather could have been worse. </div>
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An indication of how flat the roads are in Eastern Colorado and Kansas</div>
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Half way! yeeha.</div>
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Seeking shelter at a church by the side of the road. Kansas doesn't have too much going scenery wise but it does have lots of Churches which are generously open to cyclists. Happy to soak up the hospitality.</div>
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A quick stop following a thunder storm, although i dont like it i am very happy at the UK'esq weather. I am more suited to it peeing down (this was pre humidity) with rain than i am to anything above 25 degrees, it tends to be around 35 degrees.</div>
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This was a church we stayed in Hutchinson. The Zion Lutheran Church. We picked the key up from the local bike shop as indicated on our map. The place had two beds with a TV and DVD player above each bed, a kitchen, showers, lots of room to hang stuff up. It is one of many churches offered to cyclists along the Transamerica Trail. It is incredible. There was a storm outside as we sat watching a DVD, so happy and grateful to be indoors.<br>
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Early morning cycle to beat the heat. The rain has brought the humidity, and i know i keep complaining about the weather but it is so bloody hot. The humidity is unreal.<br>
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The community centre where we stayed in Coyville. We asked a local resident whether we could stay there for the evening (another cyclists had said it would be ok if we asked). The same lady we asked offered us use of her pool, we ended up showering in her house and she made us dinner. I in return offered up Tom but she declined.</div>
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In the photo Tom is planning the remainder of the trip. We are a little ahead of schedule so have decided to extend the trip another 250 miles and cycle up to the Nations capital. According to the maps, the Obama's let you camp in their garden.</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15084774676034217681noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7408638097153048082.post-54144881871468540262013-07-13T15:01:00.001-07:002013-07-14T15:52:46.305-07:00The journey continues.....Hello all, I would like to start by thanking every single person who has made a donation to Yorkshire Cancer Research. We are over halfway to reaching our target, if we dont raise another penny the total to date is already superb. Thank you all on behalf of Tom and I and Yorkshire Cancer Research.<br>
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Day 21 - Missoula to Darby (Warm Shower Host) 5hrs 3mins in the Saddle, 67.33 miles, 13.3mph Average<br>
Day 22- Darby - Jackson Hot Springs 6hrs 16mins, 72.45 m, 11.5mph Ave<br>
Day 23 - Jackson Hot Springs - Dillon, 3hrs 33mins, 47.7 m, 13.4mph Ave<br>
Day 24 - Dillon to Ennis, 5hrs 13mins, 73.12 m, 13.9mph Ave<br>
Day 25 - Ennis to West Yellowstone, 5hrs 45mins, 73.63m, 12.7mph Ave<br>
Day 26 -West Yellowstone to Grant Village (Yellowstone), 4hrs 40mins, 56.5m, 12mph Ave<br>
Day 27 - Tourist Day in Yellowstone<br>
Day 28 - Grant Village to Teton RV Park, 4hrs 12 mins, 59.77 m, 14.1 mph Ave<br>
Day 29 - Teton RV Park to Debois, 3hrs 45 mins, 51.7 m, 13.7 mph Ave<br>
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Its been a good week on the bike - we have passed from Montana to Wyoming (our 4th state, high 5's), over the Continental divide at least 4 times, through Yellowstone Grand Teton National Parks and the weather has cooled. <br>
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We have been cycling at an altitude of 5,000 feet plus for the past week, this means although still hot through the day it cools down quite dramatically in the evening which is great for sleeping. We have cycled as high as 9,650 feet so we can definitely feel it on the lungs, we continue to go up for the next week or so culminating in the Hoosier pass which is 11,542 feet....something to look forward too.<br>
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A couple of stories from the week. We arrived in Darby from Missoula, i was in the supermarket picking up some tins for dinner, daydreaming about whether the campsite would have a shower. I was approached at the checkout by 3 generations of femal. This is quite a common occurrence so i wasnt too surprised, one of the ladies then asked if i would like to stay with them, again i took this in my stride. It turned out the youngest of the three alogn with her husband was a host on a website called warm showers.org in which generous individuals give up their garden/couch and shower for touring cyclists. I was shocked but very gladly accepted, within 30 mins we were showered and sitting waiting for a 3 course meal, the hosts made us breakfast too. Very humbling and yet another example of the generosity which has met us at almost every turn.<br>
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The day after the magnificent hospitality shown by our Warm Shower hosts, Tom and I stopped at a MacDonald's for some free re-fill Coke and Wifi. We were telling some local kids about our trip (which was in defence and explanation as to why we were dressed like a couple of plonkers) when some guy passed us $40 and said 'welcome to America!' I am not sure what we said to invoke such generosity but despite Tom's protests i told him this would be donated to our charity and we were very grateful and humbled by his gesture. Tom wanted to spend it on a couple of supersize meals, he is always eating.<br>
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Yellowstone was as advertised. Spectacular scenery, an abundance of wildlife and even more tourists. We had a great time and enjoyed our day off but truthfully i was almost happy to move on. The roads were so busy it didnt feel safe, every second vehicle was a huge RV and roads are generally narrow. Additionally we have already witnessed so much spectacular scenery on our trip WITHOUT the tourists Yellowstone didnt quite match up, difficult one to explain. <br>
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The fitness levels continue to improve, although the mileage is still varied we are no longer absolutely shattered at the end of the day.<br>
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Hitting the shops before we get on our way</div>
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Brokeback mountain heroes</div>
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Refreshments time</div>
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Still in the wild west</div>
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Quake Lake - this lake was formed by an Earthquake in the 1950's, sadly a lot of people lost their lives. The picture shows the location of a former campsite which was full on the night of the earthquake which caused a landslide and flash floods.</div>
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Arrived in the town of West Yellowstone located at the gates of Yellowstone national park. Yellowtone was the one place pre-trip we were most excited about.</div>
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State #4</div>
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Long eared deer, bike is the best way to see the wildlife in Yellowstone. Although in the time we stopped to take a photo about 6 cars pulled up to see what we were looking at. In Yellowstone there are frequently 'bear jams' 'elk jams' etc where the Cars/RV's just stop where they are and people jump out to take photos - mental.<br>
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The geysers in the background, hundreds of them, a very cool cycle!</div>
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We passed over the Continental divide 4 times in 2 days, this is the first, hence the enthusiasm.<br>
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The Yellowstone Grand Canyon, the highlight of the park for me. It was originally called simply the Grand Canyon before the one in Nevada stole its name, the bastard.</div>
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Grand Teton, the other pre-trip highlight. We need a new highlight now that they are both done.<br>
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My Peanut butter bagel enjoyed with a view. I love bagels.</div>
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The Tetons with my bike in the forefront, amazing.</div>
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It takes a good photographer to make this guy look cool</div>
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Happy to be at the top of the pass, the post not so happy.</div>
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Yellowstone, this was as close as i dared go. Just less than a ton. Something to aspire too.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15084774676034217681noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7408638097153048082.post-20115570460301524182013-07-03T18:14:00.001-07:002013-07-03T18:14:42.272-07:00Le Tour continues<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Howdy y'all, happy 4th July!<br />
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Its been a while since the last update so to avoid boring too many people i will stick to the more interesting parts, i have included a lot of photos (worth a 1,000 words apparently). We are currently in Missoula, Montana on Day 19.<br />
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Quick Stats:<br />
Day 6 - 4hrs 34 mins in the saddle, 55.6 miles, 12.1 mph average<br />
Day 7 - 5hrs 41 in saddle, 53 miles, 9.3 mph ave.....McKenzie Pass day!<br />
Day 8 - 5hrs 42 in saddle, 69.5 miles, 12.1 mph ave<br />
Day 9 - 4hrs 03 in saddle, 54.51 miles, 13.4 mph ave<br />
Day 10 - 5hrs 02 in saddle, 59.57 miles, 11.8 mph ave<br />
Day 11 - 4hrs 16 in saddle, 52.5 miles, 12.2 mph ave<br />
Day 12 - Large Dominos Pizzas x 2 (Day off Baker City Oregon)<br />
Day 13 - 5hrs 39 in saddle, 71.17 miles, 12.5 ave<br />
Day 14 - 5 hrs 32 in saddle, 62.4 miles, 11.2 ave<br />
Day 15 - 4hrs 49 in saddle, 61 miles, 12.6 ave<br />
Day 16 - 61.54 miles, 10.8 ave<br />
Day 17 - 4hrs 36 in saddle, 63.6 miles, 13.7 ave<br />
Day 18 - 2 hrs 51 in saddle, 40.33 miles, 12.7 ave<br />
Day 19 - Cat eye not with me.<br />
Day 20 - (Tomorrow) Independence Day, Rodeo y'all or watch Independence Day in the air conditioned motel eating pizza.<br />
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Its been a good 13 days since the last update, we have moved from Oregon to Idaho and then onto where we are now - Montana. We moved out of the Pacific time zone to Mountain time zone, back to Pacific time zone and then back again to Mountain time zone where will stay for at least the next few weeks. <br />
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Day 6 was the day of the McKenzie pass, we built this up in our heads to be such a big deal but the gradients were steady and although there was 4,000 feet climb to the top it wasnt too bad. There was snow at the top and the weather was overcast but not too cold. The climb was rewarded with a great downhill, this can be said for all the climbs we have done over the past few weeks. We climb for a good 2,3, 4 hours but there is always a substantial descent with little traffic which is great fun.<br />
<br />Since the McKenzie pass we have climbed a number of passes, the terrain is basically lots of ups to around 4,000 - 5,000 feet then back down into canyons at around 1,000 feet. The average speeds are pretty steady, 4-7 mph on the uphill and 25 - 30mph on the downhill. The passes occupy our minds quite a bit but are never as bad as we think, they are designed to accommodate large trucks so arent too steep...Yet. <br />
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The campsites have been pretty good so far, generally the campsites are RV parks, they always have a decent bit of grass for tents though and good facilities, we have only been a 3 nights without a shower although 2 of which we washed in the river. Tom has always had his restroom for Cock a doodle poo.<br />
We tend to Motel it on rest days so we have a safe place for the bikes (its happened once but this trend will continue i think) <br />
<br />The landscape changed after McKenzie pass from rain forrest to Mountain Desert. We have been cycling through the 'Wild West', the scenery has been stunning. We have been cycling through canyons and vast flat landscapes, the land looks like the back drop of a western movie, the photos hopefully give you an idea.<br />
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We stayed one night in a Presbyterian church, it was on the map as a cycle friendly place to stay and sure enough we knocked on the house next to the church and they gave us free reign. Another couple of cyclists, a father and son combination Stewart and Ellis also arrived in the Dayville church so Tom and I slept in the sanctuary on our roll mats. I read the bible to Tom until he fell asleep as he said he found the place a bit spooky.<br />
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We arrived in Baker City on Day 12 (Wednesday 26th), we were scheduled a day off to catch up on Laundry, rest the legs etc. We were thankful for it as we had 2 days straight of rain before we arrived so it was nice to get a chance to warm up, dry tents etc. We managed to get a cheap motel for the evening and although it was terrible by normal standards it suited us fine. No honeymoon suite this time, just a standard twin room.<br />
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The weather completely changed the day we left Baker and has continued through until now. A heatwave seems to have hit the US and although the north isnt getting it as bad it is still pretty unbearable, consistantly above 100 degrees Fahrenheit in the afternoon (35-40 degrees Celsius for you Brits). We got caught out the day we left Baker, we left late and tackled all the climbs in the heat of the day. A mistake we would not repeat, this morning we got up at 4.30am and started cycling at 5.30am. We haven't quite been as disciplined as that all week but you get the idea. Finish by the time the day gets really hot, cycling in the evening is out of the question as it doesn't cool down until it gets dark!<br />
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We have seen lots of wildlife, some of which as been alive. Lots of Deer, three ran in front of me at one stage, fortunately i wasn't going too fast but they were only 10 meters in front. Close enough for me to fill my pants and also understand why we see so many in bits on the sides of the roads. We have seen lots of snakes and racoons, none alive yet though. We have seen Pine Martins, Vultures, Chip munks and other unidentified small mammals (all alive). We are moving soon into the territory of the larger wildlife, bear, elk, moose country, very exciting. Cant wait to see if a bear shits in the woods. Mosquito country too apparently, the wee bastards drive me wild.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom loves the hills, climbing through the rain forrest to the top of the McKenzie Pass</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the top! This was moments after i had falled off my bike in slow motion in front of a crowd of people. The rocks in the background is Lava, huge lava fields surround the McKenzie pass, vast and beautiful. The photographer is from Suffolk....</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just left Sisters and this was the view we left behind. In Sisters Tom met a guy from Staffordshire who was selling Oatcakes, I dont think i have ever seen Tom look so happy. He gave us some for free, they were rank. </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Entering the mountain dessert, although it is the dessert i make it look cool (it rained all day)</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo op, Tom riding with his corporate branding......he just cant get enough</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Outside the Presbyterian church with Stewart and Ellis, great lads who we bumped into on and off for 3 days. They are cycling the route in 2 months, 70 mile days, no breaks.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">What a couple of knobheads</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical campsite, Tommy guns flexing</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Baker City, apparently the place to be back in the day (early 1900's when the gold rush was on), an early Vegas lots of gambling, boozing and whoring. All changed, Dominos and Cinema now.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Leaving Baker City, surrounded by beautiful fields and hills in the background</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Starting to get really hot, long roads, vast desert land with the odd ranch dotted around.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">5 mileish straight flat road, we tool these for granted at the time.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Typical scene, photographs dont do it justice, a pleasure to cycle in</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Afternoon nap....5 more minutes, Toms favorite phrase, not sure what his left hand is doing</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Just did the up, now comes the down, good times.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Tom reaching the top ready for the fast 3 miles</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Dinner time, still my favorite part of the day, it wont ever change</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Down in Hells Canyon, this was around 6am before it became unbearably hot.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This was us actually leaving Oregon but we didnt get a picture on the way in</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2nd state!!! its taken bloody ages to leave Oregon, a beautiful state but nice to feel like we are making progress</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">No words</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JArX3qufmMo/UdTE_FxDEgI/AAAAAAAAASk/5J1iSedV5vo/s1600/DSC01270.JPG" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="212" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-JArX3qufmMo/UdTE_FxDEgI/AAAAAAAAASk/5J1iSedV5vo/s320/DSC01270.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Feels a long way from the North Pole, i know i look cool but it was approaching 40 C at this time</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">RV park - it was so hot, we swam in the river in the background, a popular place for rafting. The RV park owner asked if we fancied going down in just life jackets....why not! It was bloody scary and he had to come collect me in the car because i went to far.</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> </td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Our new friends. Very nice couple who ran this particular campsite invited us for dinner. Smoked pork, everyone only had one piece apart from Tom and I who had 3 each and left with some for breakfast.....they were impressed.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Bobby, 'Roughy', Me and Tom, Thane behind the lens. Great bunch of guys we met last night, Roughy is from Bradford! Strong Yorkshire accent and the other pair from Michigan were giving him stick for being tight!! we said nothing.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Back to Mountain Time, for more than a day this time, we lost an hour</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">State #3</td></tr>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15084774676034217681noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7408638097153048082.post-53074694532739146922013-06-20T10:06:00.000-07:002013-06-20T10:06:28.866-07:00We have lift off......Well we made it, US airways did their best to wreck our bikes, $200 per bike obviously wasnt enough to secure safe passage. This made us rather nervous as repairs were now required and neither of us are known for our bicycle maintenance ability.<br />
Going through customs didn't calm the nerves either as we were both pulled in for an 'interview' before being allowed into the country. It was actually pretty nerve racking sitting on the bench with the would be terrorists and illegals but we charmed our way through and the customs officer promised he would follow us on twitter.<br />
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We made our way from Portland to Astoria which is the start point of the TransAm Trail. One night in the honeymoon sweet of a Pacific Coast motel and it was on with the cycling.<br />
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Day One:<br />
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45.77 miles of the TransAm trail (a further 8 miles sight seeing which included the house used in the film 'The Goonies')<br />
Average Pace - 10.5 mph<br />
Max Pace - 33 mph<br />
4 hrs 20 minutes on the bike<br />
5 Bananas eaten<br />
1 Puncture (MJ) <br />
2 lots of expletives from over sized vehicles<br />
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Packing our gear onto the bikes in the motel was an interesting task. This is something we should have practiced many times before but being under prepared as we are this was pretty much the first time. I quickly realised that i seem to have double the gear Tom has yet he seems to have everything that is need, my pants are a little bigger but thats doesnt count for all the difference? My Tent doesn't even fit in the saddle bags and has to be strapped to the back of my bike.<br />
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Day 1 was generally beautiful sunshine, amazing roads complete with smooth tarmac and cycle lanes. It was a dream start really. Half way through the day we dipped our wheels in the Pacific with a stunning back drop. Not many climbs to speak of, lots of picturesque towns, everyone was very friendly and very receptive and enthusiastic when we told them about our trip. <br />
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We met a few very friendly cyclists on route who eased passed on the ascents. It is never nice when someone cruises past you on the up hills when you are blowing out of your ass but i like to think the extra 30kg's on the bikes hindered us a little. We finished the day with a state park campsite, a warm shower and some Stag Chilli - beautiful.<br />
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Day Two<br />
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Started the day to find my back wheel was flat, great start, second puncture in two days. Wheel clean as a whistle, rims appeared fine, tyres ok, rim tape a little suspect but thought it may just be bad luck so repaired and cracked on. A little concerned that the inner tubes aren't up to taking 130kg load for prolonged periods. (the 130kg includes my saddle bags btw)<br />
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64 miles from 5 hrs 24 in the saddle. Scenery, terrain and roads much the same as day one. Both of us are feeling pretty strong, the inevitable arse ache is present despite a thorough application of chamis cream prior to starting each day. I suppose the ache may be worse if we didn't have separate tents.<br />
Unfortunately no shower to be had at the end of the day but the campsite was stunning, all in all a good day.<br />
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Day Three<br />
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77 mile day from 6 hrs and 29 mins in the saddle, although 6 miles of this was solo as i left my sunglasses in a service station. It wasn't a happy ride back to retrieve them but an essential piece of kit so i needed to suck it up. <br />
Starting to appreciate that despite what many people have said the likelihood of losing any weight on this trip is slim. Typical days food -<br />
Breakfast #1 - 7.30am Oatmeal with Banana and raisens, chewy bar<br />
Breakfast #2 - c. 10.30am Peanut butter bagel, some trail mix<br />
Lunch #1 - c. 1.00pm Tuna Bagel, Banana, Apple<br />
Lunch #2 - c. 4.00pm Beef Jerky, Trail Mix, Banana<br />
Dinner - end of day Tin of Stag Chilli, carrots, green beans (all tinned) and pasta<br />
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We left the Pacific coast today, it was a little too short and sweet. The Pacific coast is absolutely stunning and it is a shame the Transamtrail doesnt follow more of it. The rolling hills, smooth tarmac and beautiful views will be hard to beat.<br />
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We are both harboring ever increasing appetites and when we get hungry there is a noticeable drop in pace. Food is therefore a major topic of conversation. We did stop in MacDonalds although it was only to use the wifi, Supersize wouldnt cut it, not enough calories per dollar.<br />
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We managed to get a shower at Day three's campsite which was very much appreciated, very tired but probably not as tired as i thought i would be considering 77 miles is the furthest i have ever cycled! <br />
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Day Four<br />
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52 miles from 4 hrs 25 mins in the saddle. An easy day in comparison to day 3, generally very flat terrain, roads were good and the traffic wasnt too bad. The roads and weather continue to be fantastic and although we know this will change we are enjoying every minute of it at the moment. <br />
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One of the principal economic main stay of the Oregan coast is lumbering which means the roads are fairly well trafficed with huge log carrying Arctics. It can be pretty hairy when one of the trucks trundles by and we are thankful for the hard shoulders at these times. Additionally, generally speaking the vehicles over here are huge, some of the RV's are towing what we would consider big 4x4's which gives an indication of the size....think Meet the Fockers RV. Whilst this means the roads are wide, it does feel quite tight when they whizz by in convoy. Some of them honk the horn before they pass, we are still unsure whether this is a warning or a form of abuse, i have kept the finger retracted so far and giving the benefit of doubt to the RV pilots.<br />
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Ironically at the end of Day Four we stayed in an RV park, we were the only tents which has been the norm so far. It may not be the same for all of Oregan but camping seems to be on the whole taking your house on wheels to a different place. We sat outside on the tarmac cooking our 3% meat tinned chilli looking through the windows of the RV's where their owners watch their wide screen TV's on their leather sofa, who is really winning? <br />
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Day Five<br />
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A rest day today, although to get to the rest spot in Eugene we had to cycle 15 miles, it was a flat 15 miles with an average pace of around 13 mph.<br />
Today has been the rest days to beat all rest days. We are in Eugene staying with my cousins and we have been treated like Kings. We have taken on more calories than we can justify made up of beautiful home made cooking and baking. We have fired assault rifles and hand guns which was incredible and we finished the day off with a locally brewed IPA in the hot tub......bliss. We wont want to leave there is no doubt about that, especially because the next couple of days involves 5,000 feet of climbing. The McKenzie pass is open again (closed because of snow until earlier this month) which means there is no excuses.<br />
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Hey You Guys, outside the Goonies house, very giddy!</div>
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Day #1 of Brokeback cycles</div>
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Dipping the wheel in the Pacific, we made a poor guy who was sunbathing take some photos. It was a nightmare getting the bikes down to the beach and back off. Sand everywhere too but its an essential photograph! <br />
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The trip navigator double checking a few details, impeccable navigation so far.</div>
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What a guy</div>
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Best part of any day, and yes i havent changed my clothes in a couple of long sweaty days.</div>
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Sand lakes flanking the beautiful road, this was the end of a 4 mile descent where we didnt pass one single car.....amazing fun.</div>
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Bye bye to the Pacific, lunch #1</div>
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Pish stop photo op</div>
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Rest day....when in Rome</div>
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15084774676034217681noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7408638097153048082.post-49937363432816701342013-05-21T06:48:00.002-07:002013-05-21T06:50:08.835-07:00And so it begins.....<span lang="EN-GB">23 days till departure, this cycling lark is becoming very real. </span><br />
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Preparation is still very much ongoing. We have now acquired most of our gear; thanks in large part to Endura (http://www.endura.co.uk/) who have very kindly agreed to provide equipment at 50% of the RRP. </div>
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However, there is a piece of equipment which has yet to arrive, a fairly essential piece of equipment - BIKES. We have purchased two new bespoke tour bikes which are expected to be available for collection on Saturday (25/05); we might even have time to treat ourselves to a cycle on them before we go. ‘<i>Preparation is overrated’ </i>(Jack, M May 2013)</div>
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Training has been relatively minimal, I am very much of the opinion that we will learn on the job, or in this case get fit as we go; yes I will probably live to regret that one. Tom’s training consists of frantically trying to break in his new ‘Brooks saddle’. The Brooks saddle is a traditional English leather touring saddle which feels a lot like a brick until worn in……the guy in the bike shop did advise Tom that time is perhaps against him and if he has any aspirations of having children in the future then he should consider a softer saddle.</div>
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On the Charity side of things, we have set ourselves an ambitious target of raising £1 for every mile we cycle, equating to a target of £4,234.00 in aid of Yorkshire Cancer Research. We have a football tournament next week which will assist after which we will be relying on the generosity of the general public.</div>
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We will update the blog in three weeks when we arrive State side. In the meantime, people keep advising me to watch what I presume is a cycling documentary called Brokeback Mountain, hopefully Tom and I will find time to watch this before we leave.</div>
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The TransAm cyclists sporting their Yorkshire Cancer Research T-Shirts</div>
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</span><br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/15084774676034217681noreply@blogger.com1