Friday, March 26, 2010

Day 21 ......... wind friend and foe (SIT)

As we left the Davis Mountains State Park this morning, the sun was blazing in the blue sky and all seemed right with the world. Marathon, TX was only 60 miles away, what appeared to be an easy day.

The first 10 miles or so were ok, then the infamous Texas winds kicked in. I'm not a meteorologist, but based on the weather report this morning, I'm thinking that the gusts were 20 - 25 MPH. When the cross winds gusted, it was hard to keep the bike in a straight line. No other word describes it other than brutal. But winds are a funny thing. If you are going the same direction as the wind.....wow...

So the day was filled with contrasts. With a tail wind I was able to climb a 6% grade in the big ring at 14.5 mph ..... with a head wind I could barely hold 14 mph down a 5% grade. So, wind: friend and foe.

Our accommodations for the night are at the Gage Hotel in Marathon, TX. It's an old Railroad Hotel, beautifully restored....beautiful courtyards blooming flowers and a lovely pool. Just what the soul needs to refresh after 60 miles of riding, mostly against the wind.

As always, looking forward to tomorrow!

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