Man is not made for Defeat – Ernest Hemingway

Greetings from Albuquerque New Mexico,

The weather finally cooperated although is was in the 20’s when we started our ride this am. Everyone was bundled up to the degree they could since most of us didn’t really bring cold wether jackets. The weather warmed quickly and we had a marvelous day. The wind seemed to be on our side as well.

At mile 19’8, I stopped with a number of riders at the little store in Acoma, Laguna Indian territory.  I knew this was the little store that Herm and I visited in 2014 and also the site of some little cabins that Ernest Hemingway stayed at many moons ago. I looked up some Ernest Hemingway quotes and I felt it embodied the spirit that I see exhibited on these cross country rides. Some riders go through some pretty tough days, but they persevere. I know that Kevin and Mary are still hurting but they continue ride. Many riders braved the cold rain for many miles . Mike is suffering today and both his boys (young men) came into the ride with very little experience but they keep going.

Today was just one on the enjoyable days were riding is a pleasure and the scenery, plateaus, volcanic rock, vegetation and old highway billboard charm make the time pass quickly. The first Sag was at mile 30 and most of us took the opportunity to leave behind some of the extra clothing we had worn. We then got back on highway 40 for the second last time and most of the highway shoulder was much better than we had the two previous days.

The second SAG was at mile 57 the Rio Puerco exit which I think translated to Pig River .he food was delicious and I shared some of mine with a fearless pigeon missing a toe. He came within inches of me for a few crumbs of Fig Newton.

From that point, we ascend about 7 miles and then have a big descent into Albuquerque. I was riding with Howard and Jan when my rear tire went flat. Jan was behind me and stopped but Howard was long gone. I felt the tire loose pressure while I was doing over 30 mph. Unfortunately, one of my bonehead decisions came front and center. I have pretty deep rimmed Enve wheels. The spare tubes that weary are not long enough to clear the wheel and allow enough space to attach a pump or CO2. Jannel from the support staff was on the scene and we tried a lot of different things but none worked. I was 7 miles from the hotel and downhearted.

Now the support vans are really busy at the end of the day and have duties to perform post ride that don’t involve taking riders various locals. I understand that as their day does not end when we stop riding and actually starts well before we start riding. Jannel graciously volunteered to take me to the bike shop. I bough almost their whole supply of 80 mm tubes. Jane also volunteered to take me back to the spot that I had punctured. To make a long start short, I was able to finish the ride albeit several hours later than I expected.

Jane leaves us for several weeks and Carol, who I know from past tours will take over for that time. Both of these ladies are my heroes. Jane, I am eternally grateful for your kindness and good cheer. She has done this ride and knows what it means to the riders.

Thanks for reading

~Chuck