 |
Sunrise in Springerville
|
The normal routine was moved up 30 mins due to the length of the day, 150 miles, and loss of an hour moving into New Mexico. We were ready and on the road at a few minutes after 6. A bit nippy, so we started out in wind vests and arm warmers!
 |
Good morning New Mexico
|
The New Mexico state line was only 14 miles into the ride, and after the first climb of the day. Another big day climbing was on tap, so we rolled on and up.
 |
Jeff on the descent to the first SAG
|
 |
Catholic Church in Quemado
|
The second sag was in Quemado, about 49 miles into the ride. The SAG was in the shade and after a quick stop, we rolled out toward Pie Town!
 |
Service station ruins in Pie Town
|
We continued up toward Pie Town. The SAG was in a local park. No time for pie, there is still more climbing to do!
 |
Not the high point of the ride today!
|
We actually made a small descent to the Continental Divide and stopped to take some photos.
 |
High point of the day 8,100 feet
|
The road starts a gradual climb to a saddle marked by a microwave tower at mile 81.5 that marked the high point of the day. Winds were favorable through this part of the stage, mostly tail and cross-tail and we were making good time. Because of the time limit for the day, if you are at the back, they will 'bump' you up t the next SAG in the van. We were well within the time limit and pressed on.
 |
Lon Haldeman riding today!
|
After hitting the high point it was a downhill run to the lunch stop. We took a nice 30 minute break and reloaded some calories. Apply more sunblock and head out!
 |
National Radio Astronomy Observatory VLA
|
The next section is a 20 mile run though a grassy valley on nearly flat roads. The wind was easing, but still helpful. Lon Haldeman was on the bike today and we passed him just before we reached the Very Large Array (VLA) of the National Radio Astronomy Observatory. There dozens of radio antenna placed along a rail line crossing the 20 mile valley!
 |
View from a SAG under a tree
|
We crossed the valley and arrived at the 114.7 mile SAG. It was at a roadside table under some nice pine trees. Again, a quick stop and we are on our way.
 |
Steve B. joins the party
|
We catch Steve B. just before the last SAG. Good thing, because its uphill into a stout headwind! We work together in a rotating pace line and arrive at the SAG. Wanting to put this day in the bag, we quickly headed out for the last 18 miles to Socorro. After a few miles of uphill, we enjoy an easy descent into town.
 |
Finally a first floor room!
|
We completed the 155 mile ride in 10 hours and 23 minutes. There was 5,200 feet of climbing, but mostly favorable winds.
Tomorrow is a shorter day (104 miles), so we get a little later start. See you in the parking lot at 0700 ready to go!
2 comments:
Wasn't expecting a post today after the 155 and the lost hour! Well done and hopefully it's a bit of a recovery tomorrow. We had coffee and pastries at Junk and Java in Springerville two weekends ago and were right across the street from that Round Valley Furniture store in your first picture! - D Tansill
I was thinking you would just get to bed and not post. Wonderful posts! You are a total freaking Rockstar in my book! Marian
Post a Comment