ES11 - Worcester MA to Windsor Locks CT

Miles: 70
Elevation gain - around 3000 ft

This morning we woke up to a pleasant site - no rain. In fact there was no rain all day even though the humidity was high. The roads were wet so we (and our bikes) were quite grimy at the end of the day. Tonight there were a lot of bikes with mechanical issues due to the climbing and the rain and the rad grime. My trusty bike is holding up well. There was a little adjustment required in the shifting but no other issues.

This was a very hard day for me. I started the day out with an energy deficit. Yesterday I did not take in any recovery nourishment when I finished the ride. I know better. But I came in late, was soaking wet, etc. So this morning I paid the price. I could feel the lack of energy the moment I started. And I never recovered all day. There was a lot of climbing but that was only part of the problem.
The countryside was fantastic. Lots of pumpkin fields and stands selling pumpkins. The leaves are starting to turn. I came down one hill with trees on both sides. The bark was wet so was dark and the leaves were green and gold. It was so fantastic it made the climb up the hill worth the pain.

We rode through an area where a tornado touched down. If you look closely at the house in the picture, you will see the roof is gone and laying on the ground beside the house.

I will introduce you to the SAG Angels - Carol and Robin. They drive the vans and supply us with nutrients and liquids. The best part is that they great us with happy smiles and words of encouragement. And they are a phone call away if we get in any trouble on the road.

Tomorrow will be a killer of a day. We are going 95 miles to Fishkill NY. And rumor has it there will be some serious climbs. Wish me luck.

Sent from my Verizon Wireless BlackBerry