80.5 mi, 1,730ft gain, 52-85F / light side wind/slight tailwind
Kansas, you’ve redeemed yourself. We thank you!
On this Memorial Day we started with a brief military salute to those who have served and are riding along with us. We have a lot of military connections in this group. I’m just a military spouse; I found myself emotional today as I rode. I pushed ahead of the group and let the emotions run their course. The sun was low as it was rising, the haze of humidity over the wheat fields created a golden glow you might see in a movie, and the rolling hills felt to be paying homage to those we’ve lost. I thought of each person we have known to give their life while in service. Saying their name out loud as I rode through the middle of America felt right. Strange emotions of guilt for being here able to ride, happiness to have had these people in our lives, and complete utter sadness at the thought of their families thinking of them today brought tears streaming down my face.
You’re never forgotten. 🇺🇸
Our route was wonderful, it was a great 80 mile day. Weather was perfect. The roads were smooth, except for some oddly placed rumbles that force you to ride on them every 15 feet. But this was minor… in all I would ride here again.
We had 2 SAG stops; Marion Lake was nice to see water! This area has far more water than anywhere we’ve been. Small rivers and streams crossed under us throughout the day. The hills were a good distance apart, which allowed us to cruise then work hard and then cruise again. Our average speeds were higher again today, not the tailwind of yesterday, but it was great.
While riding up a large hill, I spotted a small turtle being driven over. It was hiding in its shell in the middle of the lane I was next to. I could not let it be. I stopped, set my bike down, and ran to get it when no cars were coming. Poor little thing, I put it near a small drainage and large weeds. Hopefully it likes that side and stays out of the road.
Tomorrow is a rest day. I plan to use it for that. I need some extra sleep. This 9 day stretch was long and challenging. If I can manage to get myself together, I’ll go check out the gravel bike at the shops downtown. Unbound is this week, so there are tons of fellow cyclists all around! Feels like a racecation.
This makes me want to race it ^
Total mileage to-date:
1,633.9 mi
Total elevation gain to-date:
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