This was the last regular sized riding day, as tomorrow is an easy 52 miler just to bring us to the beach. I say regular, but that really doesn't describe the ride at all. It was over 5,000 feet of climbing, and the kind of climbing that gives some people the willies. The climbs were abundant and steep. It's the New England type of hills and mountains out here, the ones that may not be too high, but sure can get the old heart pumping. The day started out with a cool temperature on our way into the last state of the journey, New Hampshire. There was a visible change, for the better, in the roads from leaving Vermont. The New Hampshire roads are generally much better than others I have been on. Jeff (from ABB), Joe, Alex and I started out together, with thoughts of doing the optional climb up Sullivan Hill. Along the way, we caught up to Baltimore Mark and Katie, who joined our little climbing party. As we approached Sullivan, a few of the riders got a little nervous, as it was their first time up this kind of grade. After some encouraging words we were off, taking on the climb. My GPS registered up to 37%, but that is clearly an anomaly. I know that parts of the climb were at the 25% level, but it was never any worse. This climb turned out to be fairly easy for someone who is used to New England climbs, and especially so as there were several lower percentage plateaus to rest but still climb on. The climb reminded me of Skiff Mountain, back in Kent, Connecticut, a climb that our clubs likes to do every so often. Skiff is more than twice as long as Sullivan, and doesn't have the plateaus to rest on. After we all reached the top, everyone was thrilled that we did it. It turns out that only about 8 of us made the attempt, and I know we all feel better for doing it.
After the 2nd SAG today, we then had to tackle the Joe English climb. This wasn't optional and in my opinion was a good climb of about 14% for a good half mile. There weren't any resting plateaus on this one, so it was just a continuous grind.
Tonight is the last night together and everyone is reflecting on the journey we have taken together. Over the course of the 7 weeks, we all became a close-knit family, there for each other when mishaps occurred along with enjoying the good times. I can't describe the feeling of accomplishment, but it is certainly there. We have done something that most people will never attempt. If you have ever thought about doing this type of journey, I would highly recommend it. You will likely discover plenty about yourself along the way, including that you are stronger in spirit than you might think. There is nothing like knowing that you have to finish the day, as a powerful motivator.
Tomorrow we have an easy ride to the coast, where in the final few miles we will be escorted by the police to the beach. Our loved ones will be waiting for us there and it will be a time of reflection, reunion and completion. I will be posting a final blog entry tomorrow or the next day, once I have a chance.
Here's the GPS data from today:
http://connect.garmin.com/activity/43716822
Let's see what tomorrow brings.