Thursday, September 16, 2010
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Day 41, Tom Foolery Accomplished
My Dad and many of his generation would have described our ride as Tom Foolery, harmless fun with no meaning. Especialy this type of undertaking as it requires a lot of effort and commitment not to mention time. On the other hand it was a lot of fun. 41 days of travel and rain on 35 days including today. Our trip could be described as how to go from sea to sea and never get dry.
The last 5 days have been controlled by our ferry ride so we have been able to reduce cycling to 100 km daily and have enjoyed the leisurely schedule. Today was another easy day with about 90km to do and all day to do it. Roads were amazingly good and a strong wind was often helping us and rarely fully challenging us. Despite our best efforts Jenny and Valerie became seperated from Tom and I. Several phone calls later "it was all good" and we reached Signal Hill about 1030 and enjoyed the view of St. Johns and the ocean. The wind on the hill was amasing, 100 kph with gusts greated that that. Gusts well over 200 kph are common here, hard to hold the camera steady.
Yesterday the ferry arrived 1.5 hours late due to fog. We jumped on our bikes about 1730 hours and started down highway 100. First 2 km were up hill and eating the wind, Next 40 km were wonderful. Great pavement, quiet roads, following wind and lots of energy. We thought we were ready for the Tour and realized the Tour riders are faster uphill than we are on the level with a tail wind, and not just a little faster but 30% faster. Tour riders are the age of Tom'c children and slightly older than my grandchildren. Do you hear excuses, I do.
All of this to say the task is done, we have pedalled our asses from coast to coast. Jenny has driven coast to coast. A woman who takes 3 rights to avoid a left in Perth. Thank you Valerie and Jenny for your support that allowed us to attempt this ride. Thanks to all those at home who pitched in to meet our responsibilities while we were gone.
Low points and highlights will change over time as memories fade and the reference points change. The big challenge for this type of trip is the daily physical demands and the constant need for safety. Good luck and good training allowed success. The hard part was in the west when the rains and winds and cold temperatures made it very difficult to complete 200 km daily. We were falling well off the pace until one day after 125 km in the rain we stopped and rested and then at 1700 hours started again and did another 55 kn that evening. The following day we did our first 200 km day, I think about 220 km and then for the next days we stayed above 200 km daily. These 200-260 km days allowed us to regain confidence and with that confidence the rest was easy. This was our turning point, the key to our success. The wind was a challenge, a real challenge, the rain and cold were unpleasant, the climbs and descents got the pulse racing but the key was that second run in Sask.
Tom and I have skied together for years. This means that we each ski at our own pace and keep an eye on the other. Some days I was faster, some days Tom. Now Trent leads the way and I follow behind Tom, often away behind. Biking has gone exactly like that. Each travelling at his own pace and helping each other as required. We did a little drafting and yes we know that is the smart way to go. However for us that isn't comfortable and most of the 7000 km we each did our thing. It was good fun to ride with such a strong and positive companion. He has become Tbow to us and his strength will become legendary in our family. Physical strength yes but also strength of character and emotional strength. Thanks for the ride Tbow.
This is the last time I will do this blogging thing. It has been good fun to try this " Tom Foolery", Canada is worth seeing, having fun is worth doing, a little exercise is great and a challenge makes every day better. I had not expected to share the experience in this way. It seems weird to me that others would be interested but apparently some are. Keeping track of the distances travelled, the speeds sustained, the changes in altitude, and the maximum speeds are not my interest and occasionally I have been wrong, Always closs but often underestimating the days run. Tbow's computer has all of that. The people we meet and the country we saw are my focus.Cycling is about living in the present, and safety is about concentration, unwavering concentration. This was my reward. When all is going well and you can "giv'er", I mean really "giv'er" thats a special high. To have the luxury to do that day after day all the way across our country has been magical. Weeks from now it will seem unreal. We will return to our real lives a little better prepared for the challenges and opportunities that present.
Cres and Rube report that they are not going out in the rain again, not ever. They have given Tbow and I a grudging passing grade but want you all to know that given a Tour rider they could be climbing the Alps and winning races. Cres with 2 red tires remains as vain as reported earlier. Rube on the other hand continues to feel great since his Port Credit rehab. Cres has offered a Westport block for all you bikes, but the stronger ones may wish to do the Calabogie, Renfrew, Arnprior loop. This latter is about 20o km and a good weather offer only. Keep your chain clean and test those brakes and see you on the road. RRM
The last 5 days have been controlled by our ferry ride so we have been able to reduce cycling to 100 km daily and have enjoyed the leisurely schedule. Today was another easy day with about 90km to do and all day to do it. Roads were amazingly good and a strong wind was often helping us and rarely fully challenging us. Despite our best efforts Jenny and Valerie became seperated from Tom and I. Several phone calls later "it was all good" and we reached Signal Hill about 1030 and enjoyed the view of St. Johns and the ocean. The wind on the hill was amasing, 100 kph with gusts greated that that. Gusts well over 200 kph are common here, hard to hold the camera steady.
Yesterday the ferry arrived 1.5 hours late due to fog. We jumped on our bikes about 1730 hours and started down highway 100. First 2 km were up hill and eating the wind, Next 40 km were wonderful. Great pavement, quiet roads, following wind and lots of energy. We thought we were ready for the Tour and realized the Tour riders are faster uphill than we are on the level with a tail wind, and not just a little faster but 30% faster. Tour riders are the age of Tom'c children and slightly older than my grandchildren. Do you hear excuses, I do.
All of this to say the task is done, we have pedalled our asses from coast to coast. Jenny has driven coast to coast. A woman who takes 3 rights to avoid a left in Perth. Thank you Valerie and Jenny for your support that allowed us to attempt this ride. Thanks to all those at home who pitched in to meet our responsibilities while we were gone.
Low points and highlights will change over time as memories fade and the reference points change. The big challenge for this type of trip is the daily physical demands and the constant need for safety. Good luck and good training allowed success. The hard part was in the west when the rains and winds and cold temperatures made it very difficult to complete 200 km daily. We were falling well off the pace until one day after 125 km in the rain we stopped and rested and then at 1700 hours started again and did another 55 kn that evening. The following day we did our first 200 km day, I think about 220 km and then for the next days we stayed above 200 km daily. These 200-260 km days allowed us to regain confidence and with that confidence the rest was easy. This was our turning point, the key to our success. The wind was a challenge, a real challenge, the rain and cold were unpleasant, the climbs and descents got the pulse racing but the key was that second run in Sask.
Tom and I have skied together for years. This means that we each ski at our own pace and keep an eye on the other. Some days I was faster, some days Tom. Now Trent leads the way and I follow behind Tom, often away behind. Biking has gone exactly like that. Each travelling at his own pace and helping each other as required. We did a little drafting and yes we know that is the smart way to go. However for us that isn't comfortable and most of the 7000 km we each did our thing. It was good fun to ride with such a strong and positive companion. He has become Tbow to us and his strength will become legendary in our family. Physical strength yes but also strength of character and emotional strength. Thanks for the ride Tbow.
This is the last time I will do this blogging thing. It has been good fun to try this " Tom Foolery", Canada is worth seeing, having fun is worth doing, a little exercise is great and a challenge makes every day better. I had not expected to share the experience in this way. It seems weird to me that others would be interested but apparently some are. Keeping track of the distances travelled, the speeds sustained, the changes in altitude, and the maximum speeds are not my interest and occasionally I have been wrong, Always closs but often underestimating the days run. Tbow's computer has all of that. The people we meet and the country we saw are my focus.Cycling is about living in the present, and safety is about concentration, unwavering concentration. This was my reward. When all is going well and you can "giv'er", I mean really "giv'er" thats a special high. To have the luxury to do that day after day all the way across our country has been magical. Weeks from now it will seem unreal. We will return to our real lives a little better prepared for the challenges and opportunities that present.
Cres and Rube report that they are not going out in the rain again, not ever. They have given Tbow and I a grudging passing grade but want you all to know that given a Tour rider they could be climbing the Alps and winning races. Cres with 2 red tires remains as vain as reported earlier. Rube on the other hand continues to feel great since his Port Credit rehab. Cres has offered a Westport block for all you bikes, but the stronger ones may wish to do the Calabogie, Renfrew, Arnprior loop. This latter is about 20o km and a good weather offer only. Keep your chain clean and test those brakes and see you on the road. RRM
Saturday, July 10, 2010
sat day 40
Great night on Ferry drove onto ferry at 1am in cabin by 130 walked around then all in bed. Jen and I took the top bunks boys asleep right away we took a little longer very dark in room didnt get up till 9. Very foggy, watched movies and great entertainerment by 2 local singers. The ride end up being 15 hours a bit longer due to the fog all day, landed in Argentia at 5:00pm off ferry 530 boys on there bikes, pictures taken at the Nfld welcome sign. They biked 45.6 km in temp of 20 and great winds at there bikes average 30 per hour one of there best rides.
We are in a hotel in Whitbourne,just went our for supper and we are all tired.
Tomorrow is day 41 which is thier last day, we are heading to St.Johns about 90km.ride. We have a rest day monday,touring around St. Johns and area then we catch the Ferry back. Ross will do the blog tomorrow I know he is much more descriptive. good night everyone see you next week. val b
We are in a hotel in Whitbourne,just went our for supper and we are all tired.
Tomorrow is day 41 which is thier last day, we are heading to St.Johns about 90km.ride. We have a rest day monday,touring around St. Johns and area then we catch the Ferry back. Ross will do the blog tomorrow I know he is much more descriptive. good night everyone see you next week. val b
Friday, July 9, 2010
FRIDAY DAY 39
HOT NIGHT LAST NIGHT NOT ALOT OF SLEEP HAPPINING, WE LEFT AROUND 5 WENT TO SPOT WERE WE LEFT OFF AND AWAY THEY WENT CROSSED A SMALL VERY I WAS HERE 3 YEARS AGO WITH MY SISTERS, ONTO HIGHWAY 105 TO NORTH SYDNEY.HEADING UP KELLY MOUNTAIN 240 EVALATIONS ,LOVELY BRIDGE CROSSING AT BRAS D'OR,AT ABOUT 40KM WE PULLED OVER WITH BLUE SKIES AND ABOUT 21 DEGREES,TOM AND ROSS WERE DOING GREAT WE MADE IT TO THE FERRY AT 8AM BIKED 58 TODAY AND IT IS DONE TILL WE CATCH THE FERRY TO NFLD AT 130AM EARLY SAT MORNING. WE GOT A HOTEL NEAR BY FOR THE DAY UNLOADED VAN ,ROSS CLEANED WE WENT THROUGH OUR LUGGAGE, WE RELAXED FOR AWHILE WATCHING TOUR D FRANCE JEN WAS IN HER GLORY ABOOUT 1 WE HEADED TO SYDNEY WERE WE HAD LUNCH, WALKED THE BOARDWALK AND DID A LITTLE SHOPPING ON THERE MAIN STREET THEY HAVE ABOUT 27000 IN SYDNEY SOME LOVELY HOMES. THREE OF US HUNG OUT AROUND THE POOL FOR AWHILE ,TOM AND I WENT FOR A DRIVE CAME BACK WE ALL HAD A NAP FOR A COUPLE OF HOURS UP AT 830 HAD A SNACK AT THE MOTEL THEN WE ALL WENT FOR A WALK STILL ABOUT 25 OUT THERE , BACK IN ROOM WAITING TILL 11:30 WHEN WE HEAD OUT TO THE FERRY WHICH LEAVE AT 1:30.
THE BOYS HAVE ABOUT 6800 KM IN AND ONLY 3 SHORT DAYS LEFT OF BIKING WHAT A COMPLISHMENT .LOOKING FORWARD TO THE FERRY RIDE AND HAVING A FEW DAYS IN NFLD,
JEN SAYS THE KEYS ARE BEING AWAY SOON SHE HAS NEVER DID SO MUCH DRIVING IN HER LIFE. SHE IS DOING GREAT I THINK WE ARE A GREAT TEAM S&S ABIT OF SHOPPING AND A LOT OF SUPPORT. TO EACH OTHER AND WE ARE THERE FOR THOSE BOYS. STARTING TO PACK THE FAN AGAIN LEAVING NOVA SCOTIA THE CABOT TRAIL WAS AMAZING LOVE THE SMELL OF THE OCEAN AND THAT SALT AIR. HELLO TO ALL FAMILIES AND FRIENDS THANKS FOR THE NOTE THANKS TO KAREN AND STEVE FOR WATCHING MY COTTAGE TALK TO YOU SOON AND CATCH UP IN STORIES HOPE IT COOLS DOWN FOR ALL OF YOU. XXXXXXXOOOOOO VAL B
THE BOYS HAVE ABOUT 6800 KM IN AND ONLY 3 SHORT DAYS LEFT OF BIKING WHAT A COMPLISHMENT .LOOKING FORWARD TO THE FERRY RIDE AND HAVING A FEW DAYS IN NFLD,
JEN SAYS THE KEYS ARE BEING AWAY SOON SHE HAS NEVER DID SO MUCH DRIVING IN HER LIFE. SHE IS DOING GREAT I THINK WE ARE A GREAT TEAM S&S ABIT OF SHOPPING AND A LOT OF SUPPORT. TO EACH OTHER AND WE ARE THERE FOR THOSE BOYS. STARTING TO PACK THE FAN AGAIN LEAVING NOVA SCOTIA THE CABOT TRAIL WAS AMAZING LOVE THE SMELL OF THE OCEAN AND THAT SALT AIR. HELLO TO ALL FAMILIES AND FRIENDS THANKS FOR THE NOTE THANKS TO KAREN AND STEVE FOR WATCHING MY COTTAGE TALK TO YOU SOON AND CATCH UP IN STORIES HOPE IT COOLS DOWN FOR ALL OF YOU. XXXXXXXOOOOOO VAL B
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Cabot Trail Day 37&38
Hello from Sea Parrot Oceanview Manor on the Cabot trail near Baddeck. The Cabot Trail is not realy necessary to the cross Canada run but when we are right here we coudn't resist. Named after John Cabot who was here in 1497. this loop around Cape Breton is world renowned for the scenery and recently a meca for cyclists. The entire route is awesome for the rugged terain, the ocean, the wildlife and the friendly people.
At this point we are a day ahead of schedule, a schedule controlled by the ferry ride to Newfie. This allows days of 120-140 km, that means stopping earlier in the day and a chance to explore. Yesterday we were able to go whale watching for 3 hours. A pod of pilot whales entertained us for 2 hours. Probaby 11 whales and 2 young, that are being raised by the pod. "It takes a village to raise a child"The full grown whale is about 7 meters and 2000kg. They swim and travel as a group and we saw them logging. Logging refers to resting on the surface for a minute or so and seems to be when they sleep. Talk about your power nap.
The captain of the 22 year old fishing boat has been a commercial fisherman for 32 years and taking folk whale watching for 7 years. He is amazing skillfull with the 12 meter boat which has a Perkins diesel engine thatmakes about 12 knots. New the boat is about 150,000, and will last about 50 years. This happened from Pleasant Bay, a community of 150 people. Captain and mate are live long residents. No internet, no cell phones, no movies. A date is a trip to the beach, bonfire and what ever comes next. Good meals at the Mid Way Motel restaurant and a quiet place to sleep.
Today we are just north of Baddeck at a wonderful resort on St Ann's bay. Our great luck holds and we found this place on the recommendation of our waiter at breakfast 60 km ago. We found a vacany but the place is fully booked for next 8 weeks. Awesome grounds and spacious,clean and well appointed rooms. Another place that would be worth a second visit. One km up the road is the Clucking Hen, bake shop and restaurant. Best food anywhere. Named as one of Canada best and written up in Globe and Mail this spring. Roast beef sandwhich, soup, lemon pie and butter tarts made a great snack.
Several shops with local artisans showing their work, beautiful blown glass, stained glass, wood work etc. How do these shops survive? The owner is there and will chat you up for hours and few sales. Good fun for us though.
When it is all said a bike trip is about the biking. The Cabot Trail is famous for the scenery, and all though things you can do from a car. For Bikers the hills are the game. There are at least 4 major climbs and lots of steep ,short climbs that keeps the pulse up. We are travelling clockwise and the first major climb was French mountain, 450 meters of climbing and for me at least was a surprise. This was late in the ride, a good thing as we were well primed. However it was hot, 29 degrees, and a challenge because with every turn the road kept climbing. The descent with traffic all around us was exciting. Even with full braking our speed was well beyond safe. Full braking is a risk as the rims heat to the point that tires fail. Then over you go, no way you can ride the rim. The days run was about 127 km with average speed of 27kph. Maximum was 82 kph.
Today we started as early as possible with several climbs and a hot day we wanted to enjoy the empty roads as long as possible. North Mountain is about 4 km from Pleasant Bay. Not quite far enough to wake up the muscles. This is described as the grand daddy of the hills and it is a steep climb over about 6 km and up to 13 degree slope. As expected a good workout but not overwhelming. The descent is another matter altogether. Tiring going up, ok stop. In trouble going down a 13-14 % grade at 80+ kph and a trauma team will be you best friends. Tom with his usual confidence blew through this with ease, I on the other hand hAD A WONDERFUL RIDE, thrilling through the switchbacks and dazzling at the bottom. This isn't Disney World, the great riders are injured in the Tour de France, but relax you must and go with our old friend gravity. Did I go right back up and do it again? No!Seriously though for you cyclists, it is a challenge but not severe under the conditions we enjoyed, early in the day and no traffic. Pavement is good and safe to let'er run.
The south mountain is dismissed as not as hard. If North wasn't there South would be considered a worthy test. Long climb but more gradual and descent is more fun as you can really LET IT GO. At Neil's Harbour we had a break and I visited with the paramedics and Er staff. Then along down the south run of the Cabot Trail we went innocent and uniformed. Then one of the usual climbs kept on going for km after km, what was this?No one told us about Smokey mountain. Well ok, so what a long but easy climb , lasting too long in the heat but no problem we are at the top, have a drink and a 10 km run down again. Upps, what is happening? Why can't I see the road ahead? Like a ski run when the descent is steep enough you have to cross the lip to see the run. Smokey had a thrill for us!Down 300 meters in about 1 km, brakes protesting and very tight switch backs and road signs saying speed limit of 20 kpha dn we are flying. A complete surprise that was over very quickly and no harm done, just a comment from Tom, "all that climbing and I had to use my brakes all the way down"
Cycling the cabot Trail is great, probably a must for all road cyclists, a challenge, fun and delightfull for all the other reasons mentioned. The theme for this road is "just giv'er" As a bonus to our trip it was worthwhile and the previous 6500 km had us well prepared.
Tomorrow into North Sydney for the ferry and then Newfie's our home.
Today early morning I saw a deer, a fox and almost ran over a chipmunk who coudn't decide whether to cross the road or not, and turned once too often. One tail injury One major surprise is how few cyclists we are seeing. We expected to see hundreds and are seeing only 2 or 3 a day. A little disappointing as the company would be fun. Evidently we are early and August and September are the busy months. That means the risk o
f snow on the high ground and indeed there are shelters available for use. This way seems preferable to me and allowed us to find accomodation without difficulty.
At this point we are all missing out real worlds and look forward to resuming our routines. Birthdays to catch up and lots of people to thank and stories to tell. Whatever you hear divide by half and subtract a little and you will have the facts. Do you know who sang Happy Trails To You? So partner until we meet again keep on smiling. RRM
At this point we are a day ahead of schedule, a schedule controlled by the ferry ride to Newfie. This allows days of 120-140 km, that means stopping earlier in the day and a chance to explore. Yesterday we were able to go whale watching for 3 hours. A pod of pilot whales entertained us for 2 hours. Probaby 11 whales and 2 young, that are being raised by the pod. "It takes a village to raise a child"The full grown whale is about 7 meters and 2000kg. They swim and travel as a group and we saw them logging. Logging refers to resting on the surface for a minute or so and seems to be when they sleep. Talk about your power nap.
The captain of the 22 year old fishing boat has been a commercial fisherman for 32 years and taking folk whale watching for 7 years. He is amazing skillfull with the 12 meter boat which has a Perkins diesel engine thatmakes about 12 knots. New the boat is about 150,000, and will last about 50 years. This happened from Pleasant Bay, a community of 150 people. Captain and mate are live long residents. No internet, no cell phones, no movies. A date is a trip to the beach, bonfire and what ever comes next. Good meals at the Mid Way Motel restaurant and a quiet place to sleep.
Today we are just north of Baddeck at a wonderful resort on St Ann's bay. Our great luck holds and we found this place on the recommendation of our waiter at breakfast 60 km ago. We found a vacany but the place is fully booked for next 8 weeks. Awesome grounds and spacious,clean and well appointed rooms. Another place that would be worth a second visit. One km up the road is the Clucking Hen, bake shop and restaurant. Best food anywhere. Named as one of Canada best and written up in Globe and Mail this spring. Roast beef sandwhich, soup, lemon pie and butter tarts made a great snack.
Several shops with local artisans showing their work, beautiful blown glass, stained glass, wood work etc. How do these shops survive? The owner is there and will chat you up for hours and few sales. Good fun for us though.
When it is all said a bike trip is about the biking. The Cabot Trail is famous for the scenery, and all though things you can do from a car. For Bikers the hills are the game. There are at least 4 major climbs and lots of steep ,short climbs that keeps the pulse up. We are travelling clockwise and the first major climb was French mountain, 450 meters of climbing and for me at least was a surprise. This was late in the ride, a good thing as we were well primed. However it was hot, 29 degrees, and a challenge because with every turn the road kept climbing. The descent with traffic all around us was exciting. Even with full braking our speed was well beyond safe. Full braking is a risk as the rims heat to the point that tires fail. Then over you go, no way you can ride the rim. The days run was about 127 km with average speed of 27kph. Maximum was 82 kph.
Today we started as early as possible with several climbs and a hot day we wanted to enjoy the empty roads as long as possible. North Mountain is about 4 km from Pleasant Bay. Not quite far enough to wake up the muscles. This is described as the grand daddy of the hills and it is a steep climb over about 6 km and up to 13 degree slope. As expected a good workout but not overwhelming. The descent is another matter altogether. Tiring going up, ok stop. In trouble going down a 13-14 % grade at 80+ kph and a trauma team will be you best friends. Tom with his usual confidence blew through this with ease, I on the other hand hAD A WONDERFUL RIDE, thrilling through the switchbacks and dazzling at the bottom. This isn't Disney World, the great riders are injured in the Tour de France, but relax you must and go with our old friend gravity. Did I go right back up and do it again? No!Seriously though for you cyclists, it is a challenge but not severe under the conditions we enjoyed, early in the day and no traffic. Pavement is good and safe to let'er run.
The south mountain is dismissed as not as hard. If North wasn't there South would be considered a worthy test. Long climb but more gradual and descent is more fun as you can really LET IT GO. At Neil's Harbour we had a break and I visited with the paramedics and Er staff. Then along down the south run of the Cabot Trail we went innocent and uniformed. Then one of the usual climbs kept on going for km after km, what was this?No one told us about Smokey mountain. Well ok, so what a long but easy climb , lasting too long in the heat but no problem we are at the top, have a drink and a 10 km run down again. Upps, what is happening? Why can't I see the road ahead? Like a ski run when the descent is steep enough you have to cross the lip to see the run. Smokey had a thrill for us!Down 300 meters in about 1 km, brakes protesting and very tight switch backs and road signs saying speed limit of 20 kpha dn we are flying. A complete surprise that was over very quickly and no harm done, just a comment from Tom, "all that climbing and I had to use my brakes all the way down"
Cycling the cabot Trail is great, probably a must for all road cyclists, a challenge, fun and delightfull for all the other reasons mentioned. The theme for this road is "just giv'er" As a bonus to our trip it was worthwhile and the previous 6500 km had us well prepared.
Tomorrow into North Sydney for the ferry and then Newfie's our home.
Today early morning I saw a deer, a fox and almost ran over a chipmunk who coudn't decide whether to cross the road or not, and turned once too often. One tail injury One major surprise is how few cyclists we are seeing. We expected to see hundreds and are seeing only 2 or 3 a day. A little disappointing as the company would be fun. Evidently we are early and August and September are the busy months. That means the risk o
f snow on the high ground and indeed there are shelters available for use. This way seems preferable to me and allowed us to find accomodation without difficulty.
At this point we are all missing out real worlds and look forward to resuming our routines. Birthdays to catch up and lots of people to thank and stories to tell. Whatever you hear divide by half and subtract a little and you will have the facts. Do you know who sang Happy Trails To You? So partner until we meet again keep on smiling. RRM
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
DAY 37
Day started just before 6am leaveing Whycocomagh NS on the Cabot Trail. 20 km away valerie went down to a beach at 615 and there was a bald eagle 4feet away on a branch. took alot of pictures. In Cheticamp at about 90 km in we stopped for breakfast around 9:40. Jen and I did a little shopping famous for rug hocking.
about 20 min later the boys had a wild climb up French mountain 11% grade and a 455meter . they did very well tom without stopping.Well going down was wild 12% fast and windy. we are in Pleasant bay now they biked 120 km a little farther than planed . A lovely place called Mid Trail.gorgeous view at harbour and ocean.
Tom Ross and I went Whale watching for 2hours , unbelievable we saw about 15 pilot whales for about an hour they come up every 5.5min the noise was fasinating, the young ones were great to watch .the whale were right beside the boat.
Went for a nice seafood dinner right at motel lovely but poor Tom alergic had linguini. we splurged and each had a different desert to fininsh off our day. Tom and i drove to get ice and then to a monastary ,buda, they own a lot of acreage on top of the mountain saw a few walking around and they have a beautiful mounument. I walked down to the beach while the rest were getting ready for tomorrow. We are heading to Ingonish and another big climb up north mountain. The rest are asleep so i better join them as we are up at 445. The temp went to 26 great i feel bad how hot is in ontario Katie caming with work hope surviving. Hi to all family and friends following love you all tom and val, Jenn and Ross by val b
about 20 min later the boys had a wild climb up French mountain 11% grade and a 455meter . they did very well tom without stopping.Well going down was wild 12% fast and windy. we are in Pleasant bay now they biked 120 km a little farther than planed . A lovely place called Mid Trail.gorgeous view at harbour and ocean.
Tom Ross and I went Whale watching for 2hours , unbelievable we saw about 15 pilot whales for about an hour they come up every 5.5min the noise was fasinating, the young ones were great to watch .the whale were right beside the boat.
Went for a nice seafood dinner right at motel lovely but poor Tom alergic had linguini. we splurged and each had a different desert to fininsh off our day. Tom and i drove to get ice and then to a monastary ,buda, they own a lot of acreage on top of the mountain saw a few walking around and they have a beautiful mounument. I walked down to the beach while the rest were getting ready for tomorrow. We are heading to Ingonish and another big climb up north mountain. The rest are asleep so i better join them as we are up at 445. The temp went to 26 great i feel bad how hot is in ontario Katie caming with work hope surviving. Hi to all family and friends following love you all tom and val, Jenn and Ross by val b
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Day 36, Nova Scotia
Hello from Whycocomagh. No of coarse I can't pronounce it. However I am enjoying being here, just off highway 105 in Capr Breton. We are in a delightful cottage on a bay of Bras D'Or Lake, a wonderful lake that is in central Cape Breton. At present we are having light showers, and have been all afternoon. This am was perfect, cool, overcast and windy, at lunch the sun broke free and was way too hot (like Perth) but the clouds quickly covered it up and biking is a delight.
This am we left at 0525 from New Glasgow on # 104 and as usual had a vacant highway for 2 hours. Even at its worst the biking here is great. Lots of long climbs and descents are fast and have great runouts. Surprisingly we saw only 3 other cyclists all day. Had a great breakfast at Ault Cove, and saw wonderful photos of animals including moose, deer, eagles, squirrels, bears and seals. Rolf Bauman, the photographer, has a gallery connected to the restaurant and sells 3 additions of his book, each dedicated to one of his children. Worth a look.
Today,s run was 160 km in about 5 hours at average speed of 27.9kph. This allowed us to stop early and enjoy this cottage. Tom is cooking steak, and we will feast tonight. The plan is a trip around the Cabot Trail over the next few days and a ferry ride to Newfie. Another flat tire for Tom and the replacement also going flat. Hopefully problem solved.
Interesting lady working here today. She lived in Boston and came here 18 months ago to help her sister run this facility. She plans to return to Boston, as in this commu nity of 200 people there is no Bloomingdales. This area is a reserve with about 800 living there. The reservation has all facilities supplied and this rattles this lady. Leading to a conversation that Rod understands.
There are hundredrs of eagles here and they feed early in morning from the bay. Hopefuly we can see some . No swimming in lake, boating of all varietes, but not even much water skiing. The view is wonderful and that is the draw for people. I have photos of the cottage and central lodge and we can recommend a stay here when you are passing through.
a break now for supper. That was good, now fueled and ready to roll. Bikes to clean and clothing washed and passing the sniff test. Sun tans are perfect for bikers, arms and face and mid thigh distally all brwn or red and remainder ghost white. Noses are peeling and bleeding but abrasions are healing and we will not be mobbed by photographers. Soon I expect pony tails and ear rings. Perhaps a great new look for us. Not!
The maritimes are always special, with the boats and colors of the houses. Great piles of lobster traps, ropes and floats and all equipment dockside making my camera fire away. Hopefully some whale watching and seal sightings over the next 2 days. Even the architecture is sufficently different to fascinate. Shingled buildings are common and the weathered ook predominates. The scents of the ocean are a major part of the experience. Here away from the highwy the silence is full of birds and wsater and wind. Sounds that regenerate rather than exhaust
Good night from al of us, hope your shoes fit and remember your mother's advice. Clean underwear!RRM
This am we left at 0525 from New Glasgow on # 104 and as usual had a vacant highway for 2 hours. Even at its worst the biking here is great. Lots of long climbs and descents are fast and have great runouts. Surprisingly we saw only 3 other cyclists all day. Had a great breakfast at Ault Cove, and saw wonderful photos of animals including moose, deer, eagles, squirrels, bears and seals. Rolf Bauman, the photographer, has a gallery connected to the restaurant and sells 3 additions of his book, each dedicated to one of his children. Worth a look.
Today,s run was 160 km in about 5 hours at average speed of 27.9kph. This allowed us to stop early and enjoy this cottage. Tom is cooking steak, and we will feast tonight. The plan is a trip around the Cabot Trail over the next few days and a ferry ride to Newfie. Another flat tire for Tom and the replacement also going flat. Hopefully problem solved.
Interesting lady working here today. She lived in Boston and came here 18 months ago to help her sister run this facility. She plans to return to Boston, as in this commu nity of 200 people there is no Bloomingdales. This area is a reserve with about 800 living there. The reservation has all facilities supplied and this rattles this lady. Leading to a conversation that Rod understands.
There are hundredrs of eagles here and they feed early in morning from the bay. Hopefuly we can see some . No swimming in lake, boating of all varietes, but not even much water skiing. The view is wonderful and that is the draw for people. I have photos of the cottage and central lodge and we can recommend a stay here when you are passing through.
a break now for supper. That was good, now fueled and ready to roll. Bikes to clean and clothing washed and passing the sniff test. Sun tans are perfect for bikers, arms and face and mid thigh distally all brwn or red and remainder ghost white. Noses are peeling and bleeding but abrasions are healing and we will not be mobbed by photographers. Soon I expect pony tails and ear rings. Perhaps a great new look for us. Not!
The maritimes are always special, with the boats and colors of the houses. Great piles of lobster traps, ropes and floats and all equipment dockside making my camera fire away. Hopefully some whale watching and seal sightings over the next 2 days. Even the architecture is sufficently different to fascinate. Shingled buildings are common and the weathered ook predominates. The scents of the ocean are a major part of the experience. Here away from the highwy the silence is full of birds and wsater and wind. Sounds that regenerate rather than exhaust
Good night from al of us, hope your shoes fit and remember your mother's advice. Clean underwear!RRM
Monday, July 5, 2010
Province 9, Day 35
Hello from New Glascow. Wecome to our trip and Tom and I thank you for taking an interest. We are having a lot of fun and each day offers new challenges and new people to meet. Today we met 2 men from Quebec who are on their way to St. Johns as well. They are carrying a lot of equipment and have been 30 days on the road. Tomorrow we will be on Cape Breton and then on the Cabot Trail, one of the most cyced roads in the world.
Backing up a little. Yesterday we went from Miramichi NB to Borden PEI. The highlight of that run was Shediac Bridge. A small community north of Shediac, The river and area is beautiful. Bright , warm and sunny with wonderful flowers, wild and cultivated. Gardens both formal and informal, houses large and grand and smaller and charming. We had a great breakfast there. Usuallt this is after the first 100 km of the day so it gives a good break. Roads through this area are generaly poor and need resurfacing. We found a great rural road, 955, along the coast, almost no traffic and good climbs and descents. Pavement on the other hand was a chaenge. Stopped for fluids at a little stand at Murray Beach, had great spring with lots of cold clean water. Ok McLeans, no after effects. Another storey for another day.
Mid day Tom and I had the largest ice cream cones imaginable. The medium cone had 2 large scoops and then another scoop on top just as large as the first 2. Impossible to eat fast enough to control melting, even hungry and tired hot men coulnd't do it. Great!
Next across Confederation Bridge to PEI. 12.9 km long and 30-60 meters above the sea it is like any other stretch of road except the crosswinds are such that no bicycles are allowed and evn walking is prohibited.
It is 8-10 years since I last visited PEI and there are a lot of signs of economic hardship. Roads are poor, many tourist attractions are closed and there did not seem to be the expected crowds for a July weekend. My personal disappointment was to find that Woodleigh Replicas has closed. This was a wonderfull oasis of peace and quiet with immaculate grounds for 30 acres, grand shade trees, gardens and walks and amazing minature buildings, scale madels of famous cathedrals and castles in England. Some were 30 meters long and others as small as 3 meters. Today it is closed and for sale, we wandered the property, I sat on the grass under a great oak tree and tried to visualize a plan to reopen this area. It was so quiet and relaxing it is good thing and am about 5 million short or I might have bought it.
Even Geen Gables wasn't busy or as spify as usual. The island remains for me one of the most beautiful and inviting places to live. Wonderful sea scapes and equally wonderful agricultural lands are certainly chocolate for my eyes. Lots of great hills to bike. Today we biked acress the island from Boeden to Woods Island to catch the fery. A little detour on road 207 brings a recommendation avoid 207, terrible surface.
The second detour was to Murray Harbour, a fihing village on the south coast. Wonderful lunch, and Tom chatted up the local fishermen while I wandered around taking pictures and Jenny and Valerie did what? Shopped you guessed. Right. We also passed the only winery on the island, no chance to sample. Folks PEI has enough hills to challenge so when you visit make certain your bike has some low gears.
Ferry from Woods island to Caribou NS is 75 minutes and it was a very smooth passage. I slept on deck and Tom admits to the odd snooze. Back on the bike for about 20 km to New Glascow through Abercrombie a prosperous community with a great location on the Northumberland Strait.Good and tired today and in need of rest. Today got warm,and humid and we are glad to shower and change shorts.
Yesterday was about 172 km in 7 hours and today 134 km in 6 hours. Showing that numbers can deceive, these lower volumes were demanding and challenging due to pavement and traffic and terrain. Tomorrow back to the bigger numbers as we cross into Cape Breton. Also back into rain, the last 2 days have been essentially dry with only slight showers and presented no problems. This is certainly preferrable to the intense heat of Ontario. The fishermen tell us that this is as hot as it gets in PEI. I suspect that Cavendish beach gets a lot hotter than their end of the island.
Incidentally Cres and Rube are talking again. Rube had his nose out of joint after Cres got a second red tire and looked very spiffy. It is hard for the other bikes we meet to accept that Rube and Cres have come so far in this period of time. The others are heavily ladden and built more for strength and less for speed. Cres certainly gives them all the slip in a hurry. Going off the front which is the hard way. This means that the other bikes are drafting and getting a 15% reduction in work and therefore can usually keep up no matter how strong the front bike is but Cres doesn't mind he just powers away as comfortably as drinking a DQ milkshake. Hopefully as we hit the Cabot Trail they will tell us their stories and adventures.
Strong team, good effort and lots of fun. Special birthday wishes for Helen Bowes and Graeme Bews both working on the same decade. Good night, don't let the bed bugs bite. RRM
Backing up a little. Yesterday we went from Miramichi NB to Borden PEI. The highlight of that run was Shediac Bridge. A small community north of Shediac, The river and area is beautiful. Bright , warm and sunny with wonderful flowers, wild and cultivated. Gardens both formal and informal, houses large and grand and smaller and charming. We had a great breakfast there. Usuallt this is after the first 100 km of the day so it gives a good break. Roads through this area are generaly poor and need resurfacing. We found a great rural road, 955, along the coast, almost no traffic and good climbs and descents. Pavement on the other hand was a chaenge. Stopped for fluids at a little stand at Murray Beach, had great spring with lots of cold clean water. Ok McLeans, no after effects. Another storey for another day.
Mid day Tom and I had the largest ice cream cones imaginable. The medium cone had 2 large scoops and then another scoop on top just as large as the first 2. Impossible to eat fast enough to control melting, even hungry and tired hot men coulnd't do it. Great!
Next across Confederation Bridge to PEI. 12.9 km long and 30-60 meters above the sea it is like any other stretch of road except the crosswinds are such that no bicycles are allowed and evn walking is prohibited.
It is 8-10 years since I last visited PEI and there are a lot of signs of economic hardship. Roads are poor, many tourist attractions are closed and there did not seem to be the expected crowds for a July weekend. My personal disappointment was to find that Woodleigh Replicas has closed. This was a wonderfull oasis of peace and quiet with immaculate grounds for 30 acres, grand shade trees, gardens and walks and amazing minature buildings, scale madels of famous cathedrals and castles in England. Some were 30 meters long and others as small as 3 meters. Today it is closed and for sale, we wandered the property, I sat on the grass under a great oak tree and tried to visualize a plan to reopen this area. It was so quiet and relaxing it is good thing and am about 5 million short or I might have bought it.
Even Geen Gables wasn't busy or as spify as usual. The island remains for me one of the most beautiful and inviting places to live. Wonderful sea scapes and equally wonderful agricultural lands are certainly chocolate for my eyes. Lots of great hills to bike. Today we biked acress the island from Boeden to Woods Island to catch the fery. A little detour on road 207 brings a recommendation avoid 207, terrible surface.
The second detour was to Murray Harbour, a fihing village on the south coast. Wonderful lunch, and Tom chatted up the local fishermen while I wandered around taking pictures and Jenny and Valerie did what? Shopped you guessed. Right. We also passed the only winery on the island, no chance to sample. Folks PEI has enough hills to challenge so when you visit make certain your bike has some low gears.
Ferry from Woods island to Caribou NS is 75 minutes and it was a very smooth passage. I slept on deck and Tom admits to the odd snooze. Back on the bike for about 20 km to New Glascow through Abercrombie a prosperous community with a great location on the Northumberland Strait.Good and tired today and in need of rest. Today got warm,and humid and we are glad to shower and change shorts.
Yesterday was about 172 km in 7 hours and today 134 km in 6 hours. Showing that numbers can deceive, these lower volumes were demanding and challenging due to pavement and traffic and terrain. Tomorrow back to the bigger numbers as we cross into Cape Breton. Also back into rain, the last 2 days have been essentially dry with only slight showers and presented no problems. This is certainly preferrable to the intense heat of Ontario. The fishermen tell us that this is as hot as it gets in PEI. I suspect that Cavendish beach gets a lot hotter than their end of the island.
Incidentally Cres and Rube are talking again. Rube had his nose out of joint after Cres got a second red tire and looked very spiffy. It is hard for the other bikes we meet to accept that Rube and Cres have come so far in this period of time. The others are heavily ladden and built more for strength and less for speed. Cres certainly gives them all the slip in a hurry. Going off the front which is the hard way. This means that the other bikes are drafting and getting a 15% reduction in work and therefore can usually keep up no matter how strong the front bike is but Cres doesn't mind he just powers away as comfortably as drinking a DQ milkshake. Hopefully as we hit the Cabot Trail they will tell us their stories and adventures.
Strong team, good effort and lots of fun. Special birthday wishes for Helen Bowes and Graeme Bews both working on the same decade. Good night, don't let the bed bugs bite. RRM
Sunday, July 4, 2010
Day 34 now in PEI
started the morning at 5:25 16 degrees shorts on tom took shell off 1 hour later, at 46km boy stopped and had chocolate milk and wild strawberry i picked while waiting for them, at 72 k Jen and i went in to Tim got snacks and went back to the side of road and had a picnic with the boys when they came in. We were in Bouchtouch NB on highway 11 heading to Shediac. We saw alot of rd kill 2 foxes 4 raccoon, and at least 10 porkypines.WE stopped at 9:22 with 95.8 kmin temp 20 degrees for breakfast, Jen and I stopped and got a few grocery in Shediac, then lost sight of the boys we got to Confereration bridge around noon the bridge is 12.8 long over the Northumberland straight completed in 1997 alot of trafic coming and going the boys arrived 135 they had stopped for icecream once then drinks second time got to bridge 1:35. Way we go to PEI By to New Brunswick loved Dalhousie were my dad from went to the house he grew up in saw My Uncle Bob and aunt Betty.great seeing relatives i think it was 12 yrs.
Found a motel 10 min from bridge as the boys have to start from there tomorrow.
Went on tour to Anne Green GAble and the country side. Fields and fields of potatoes,some mustardfields, a few dairy farms ,but the red soil and the beautiful rolling and different shades of green field, is something else .A really worth while drive to come to PEI. Went to a lovely fish rest. all had seafood tom only fish back to hotel at 730 Tom and Ross very tired now but getting organized for tomorrow a bit of a sleep in. they are leaving at 6 jen and i 7 a sleep in day yes!!!!
a rest day only doing 100 km touring more of PEI then catching a ferry to Noca Scotia around 5.
Happy birthday Helen, Katie hope cottage is still standing , Jeff hope you had a good time at the wedding in London, Scott glad to here your race went well glad you had company.love you all hi to my sisters and there famiies and the Bowes and Pentney gang and friends that are following along . having a great time val b
Found a motel 10 min from bridge as the boys have to start from there tomorrow.
Went on tour to Anne Green GAble and the country side. Fields and fields of potatoes,some mustardfields, a few dairy farms ,but the red soil and the beautiful rolling and different shades of green field, is something else .A really worth while drive to come to PEI. Went to a lovely fish rest. all had seafood tom only fish back to hotel at 730 Tom and Ross very tired now but getting organized for tomorrow a bit of a sleep in. they are leaving at 6 jen and i 7 a sleep in day yes!!!!
a rest day only doing 100 km touring more of PEI then catching a ferry to Noca Scotia around 5.
Happy birthday Helen, Katie hope cottage is still standing , Jeff hope you had a good time at the wedding in London, Scott glad to here your race went well glad you had company.love you all hi to my sisters and there famiies and the Bowes and Pentney gang and friends that are following along . having a great time val b
Saturday, July 3, 2010
July 23, Miramichi
Hello from province seven. Tonight in Miramichi, NB. Yesterday was 211km, today 210 km. Approx 1400 km in 1 week and 200 kn tomorrow will put us on PEI. Tom had a maximum speed on the run into Rimuski of 78.4 kph, same place that I had 78.2, what a rush. However today crosssing the bridge in Miramichi with a severe cross wind was a lot more stressful. Amazing feeling to try to deal with a wind that maves the van around and to do so on a bridge, 30 meters in the air and with about 20 cm wide lane. The traffic was heavy and didn't give us a break at all.
We are in the habit of starting at first light and that is the key. At that time you wil have 2-3 hours of empty roads, and cool weather and for us rain. Day 33 brings our 29th day of rain. Yesterday a tail wind and clear skies allowed an easy 211 km, today head winds and rain and a hard 210 km.
Today we saw a moose and deer, several volutures and the wild life were driving Harley's. Several mechanical problems, tire changes, and little spills continue to keep our life interesting. Some difficulties reading the road signage have added km to our route. Good visit to Dalhousie, David's brother Bob is there and Valerie and Tom had a visit. Dalhousie has a great hill on highway 134, climbing it is certainly and intense experience. In a 500 meter test pulses go from 60 to 180 and respiratory rate from 20 to 60 a minute. Pass this test and skip your next stress test.
Tonight there is a big 60's dance that was recommended. After 8.5 hours cycling we decided to dance up a storm. Picture it, old age pensioners thinking they are cool in 60's style clothing and hearing aids turned down for the music, and the doors open to clear the odour of A535 abd Absorbine Junior. Ancient type decorations, but at least no smoking and no teachers checking for smuggled beer. The dancing is just like Dancing with the Stars, the first 2 shows where most are poor and a few are terrible and one or two couples preform at another level completely. Picturing all of this we ate steak instead.
Yesterday Tom and I had Firecrackers thrown at us. No harm intended or done, but the bang made us think of a blown tubes. Lots of folk taking an interest in what we are doing. However people here seem to have less time to chat then in west. At breakfast Valerie chatted with a lady who does some cycling and Tom and I with a group of 3 men who thought we were certifiable. Probably right. The truckers we talk to hardly believe we have come this far in 33 days.
The homes along the Baie Des Chaleurs are very charming, some are hugh but most are delightful examples of good things in small packages. Along the St Lawerence the homes are bigger and grander. However no boates are in sight and I expect this is all about the view rather than active water front living. I never tire of going around the next corner or over the next hill . The surprises are usually good and unpredictable. A midway and fair in Campbellton for example.
Today we had to choose between two roads. 134 run along the water and is very scenic. 11 is a new road, good for going places, shorted, flatter, better pavement, and designed specifically for getting there in a hurry. Based on a long way to go I chose 11. Wrong. Better to work harder for less distance and more satisfaction minute by minute. After 50 km of 11 we returned to 134. Picking our way on bad pavement and through towns and detours was worth the stimulation of observing martime life. Later we followed signs to 8, and found ourselves 10 km down the wrong road, but turning around brought the wind to our aid and speed improved from 23 to 37 kph. Turtle to a hare.
The Tour de France begins today, guys racing 225 km daily in 5-6 hous without a break. They eat and drink on the fly, don't ask about eliminate. Now that is interesting and challenging. We will try to follow the race in the evenings but what we are doing is far more fun. Time to visit and sightsee and rest and munch. Looking forward to PEI one of y favorite places in Canada. Forecast calls for rain, so whats new? RRM
We are in the habit of starting at first light and that is the key. At that time you wil have 2-3 hours of empty roads, and cool weather and for us rain. Day 33 brings our 29th day of rain. Yesterday a tail wind and clear skies allowed an easy 211 km, today head winds and rain and a hard 210 km.
Today we saw a moose and deer, several volutures and the wild life were driving Harley's. Several mechanical problems, tire changes, and little spills continue to keep our life interesting. Some difficulties reading the road signage have added km to our route. Good visit to Dalhousie, David's brother Bob is there and Valerie and Tom had a visit. Dalhousie has a great hill on highway 134, climbing it is certainly and intense experience. In a 500 meter test pulses go from 60 to 180 and respiratory rate from 20 to 60 a minute. Pass this test and skip your next stress test.
Tonight there is a big 60's dance that was recommended. After 8.5 hours cycling we decided to dance up a storm. Picture it, old age pensioners thinking they are cool in 60's style clothing and hearing aids turned down for the music, and the doors open to clear the odour of A535 abd Absorbine Junior. Ancient type decorations, but at least no smoking and no teachers checking for smuggled beer. The dancing is just like Dancing with the Stars, the first 2 shows where most are poor and a few are terrible and one or two couples preform at another level completely. Picturing all of this we ate steak instead.
Yesterday Tom and I had Firecrackers thrown at us. No harm intended or done, but the bang made us think of a blown tubes. Lots of folk taking an interest in what we are doing. However people here seem to have less time to chat then in west. At breakfast Valerie chatted with a lady who does some cycling and Tom and I with a group of 3 men who thought we were certifiable. Probably right. The truckers we talk to hardly believe we have come this far in 33 days.
The homes along the Baie Des Chaleurs are very charming, some are hugh but most are delightful examples of good things in small packages. Along the St Lawerence the homes are bigger and grander. However no boates are in sight and I expect this is all about the view rather than active water front living. I never tire of going around the next corner or over the next hill . The surprises are usually good and unpredictable. A midway and fair in Campbellton for example.
Today we had to choose between two roads. 134 run along the water and is very scenic. 11 is a new road, good for going places, shorted, flatter, better pavement, and designed specifically for getting there in a hurry. Based on a long way to go I chose 11. Wrong. Better to work harder for less distance and more satisfaction minute by minute. After 50 km of 11 we returned to 134. Picking our way on bad pavement and through towns and detours was worth the stimulation of observing martime life. Later we followed signs to 8, and found ourselves 10 km down the wrong road, but turning around brought the wind to our aid and speed improved from 23 to 37 kph. Turtle to a hare.
The Tour de France begins today, guys racing 225 km daily in 5-6 hous without a break. They eat and drink on the fly, don't ask about eliminate. Now that is interesting and challenging. We will try to follow the race in the evenings but what we are doing is far more fun. Time to visit and sightsee and rest and munch. Looking forward to PEI one of y favorite places in Canada. Forecast calls for rain, so whats new? RRM
Thursday, July 1, 2010
CANADA DAY and day 31
Happy Canada Day to all. We blew into Rimouski at about 1300 hours, after 202km trip from Saint-Jean-Port-Joli. Today was awesome, we were on the road at 0502 and dressed for the 8 degree, windy day. The road is highway 132, mostly a quiet rural road, and it travels north east predominately. The wind blew stronger as the day progressed and believe it or not it was from the north west, so finaly a wind assisted ride. The morning was bright and sunny and later cloudy but remained dry until 1400 hours.
Al of this to tell you that highway 132 should be a must visit for all Canadians. This road offers great views of the St. Lawerence river and the north shore. It runs through the rich farm lands of the Eastern townships, with there long fields as laid out 200 years ago. Every 10-15 km are reat little villages that have an European charm, with great houses right on the streets, narrow streets and wonderful churches, often with 2 steeples. We saw hikers, bikers, and no trucks. There is much to see and do, great little gift shops,restaurants, and excelent accomodation. The roads are very level, just enough variation to make it fun but even children would enjoy this area. With a wind at our backs, 40-45 kph was fun. A little further on my speed maxed out at 78.23 kph. WHAT A RUSH!
Approaching Rimoski the road joins with 20 and for 40 km the traffic is heavy. The shoulders are good and other than the noise of traffic no difficulties for the serious cyclist.
However, returning to the delights of highway 132, I'll mention that the decision to cross the Saint Lawerence river at Sorel was a last minute one. A good decision, June 30 we were treated to great views of the rivers and good cycling.The terrain is gentle and interesting. We are impressed by all the wonderful houses, large and small they outnumber the ordinary 2 to 1. Our custom is to ride for 2 hours and take a break, often this stretches to 3 hours and the break is appreciated. This day we stopped in the bright sunlight at a fruit and vegetable stand, and ate fresh produce and warm from the oven baking with apple cider, non alcoholic for sure. While enjoying our snack other cyclists we meet on the road passed. Father and son going from Toronto to Newfoundland. A lone french speaking man going from Montreal to Halifax. We passed them again later and played leap frog for the day. The lone felow pushed on much later in the day than we did. This despite unsettled weather all afternoon with showers and torrential downpours. We were pleased to stop at Saint-Jean-Port-Joli. A little village that thinks of itself as the center of wood carving for Canada. Very worthwhile visit. The artisants were happy to talk to us and we learned a lot
about woods and tools, Ofter the wood hae dried for 20 years and was the select quaity back then.
Home for the night was a great motel, resort on the Saint Lawerence, with a great view from our rooms and all the amnities of home. No. I am not working for the tourist bureau but I would recommend looking at this entire area and preferably from a bicycle seat.
The last few days have seen flat tires and blown tubes but not probelms. Rube and Cres have been very reliable and no complaints from either. A full tune up for both will be needed soon as the pounding on some roads is tremendous. The cobblestones of Europe have nothing on the frost heaves of Canada.
Anyone who is keeping track will be aware that the streak is intact, rain on very day but 3 in the 31 days to date. Had we waited for good weather we would be still in BC. As it is we will enter New Brunswick tomorrow at Campbellton. Then down along the coast, a pituresque drive. The major deadline ahead is our ferry booking to Newfoundland. We will try to stick to out plan of 200 km daily, but there are demanding ahead.
Earlier I spoke of the sounds of our trip and how it was taking on a unexpected major impression. The joys af nature, birds and animals, the rush of wind the hum of bicycle tires on dry pavemnt, and the hiss on wet. Conversation is possible and I feel at peace with the country. Contrasted with the almost unbearable noise of busy traffic which overwhelmes all senses, not just hearing. Cycling is one of the quiet sports as is Nordic skiing and the "peace of quiet" is one of their chief attractions. Rural cycling is much more fun for Tom and I both and thus we have gone well out of our way to avoid cities. The largely empty roads of 0500-0800 make the early rising totaly worthwhile. Those first 3 hours allow us to look around a lot more whereas later it is full concentration to the road. Also the cool of the day and the sunrise are fully appreciated.
Triva buffs know this. Dehydration is not a problem in tha cold rain so dehydration has been a none factor this trip. Keeping our energy levels has been fun and no major weight changes. Minor scrapes and muscle aches and very few of even these.
Tomorrow promises to be another cool day and the preparation includes getting wet clothing ready for another round. We do not use the sniff test, this is an outside game and odiferous shoes and socks are part of the game. Replenish, repair and rest replace the more traditional 3 R's.
There are a fair number of photos and several logs af our experiences. Perhaps with time we can create a resource for others who may wish to cycle al or parts of the route. Almost to a person the people we have meet are helpful, pleasant and take time for us. Many of the best experiences have just happened and are not the result of careful planning. Planning does allow the freedom to improvise because the basics are al covered. Basics include good friends for travel companions, good fitness, and good equippment. A sense of joy in the little things and at least a small sense of adventure.
Happy Canada Day to all and especially to family. RRM
Al of this to tell you that highway 132 should be a must visit for all Canadians. This road offers great views of the St. Lawerence river and the north shore. It runs through the rich farm lands of the Eastern townships, with there long fields as laid out 200 years ago. Every 10-15 km are reat little villages that have an European charm, with great houses right on the streets, narrow streets and wonderful churches, often with 2 steeples. We saw hikers, bikers, and no trucks. There is much to see and do, great little gift shops,restaurants, and excelent accomodation. The roads are very level, just enough variation to make it fun but even children would enjoy this area. With a wind at our backs, 40-45 kph was fun. A little further on my speed maxed out at 78.23 kph. WHAT A RUSH!
Approaching Rimoski the road joins with 20 and for 40 km the traffic is heavy. The shoulders are good and other than the noise of traffic no difficulties for the serious cyclist.
However, returning to the delights of highway 132, I'll mention that the decision to cross the Saint Lawerence river at Sorel was a last minute one. A good decision, June 30 we were treated to great views of the rivers and good cycling.The terrain is gentle and interesting. We are impressed by all the wonderful houses, large and small they outnumber the ordinary 2 to 1. Our custom is to ride for 2 hours and take a break, often this stretches to 3 hours and the break is appreciated. This day we stopped in the bright sunlight at a fruit and vegetable stand, and ate fresh produce and warm from the oven baking with apple cider, non alcoholic for sure. While enjoying our snack other cyclists we meet on the road passed. Father and son going from Toronto to Newfoundland. A lone french speaking man going from Montreal to Halifax. We passed them again later and played leap frog for the day. The lone felow pushed on much later in the day than we did. This despite unsettled weather all afternoon with showers and torrential downpours. We were pleased to stop at Saint-Jean-Port-Joli. A little village that thinks of itself as the center of wood carving for Canada. Very worthwhile visit. The artisants were happy to talk to us and we learned a lot
about woods and tools, Ofter the wood hae dried for 20 years and was the select quaity back then.
Home for the night was a great motel, resort on the Saint Lawerence, with a great view from our rooms and all the amnities of home. No. I am not working for the tourist bureau but I would recommend looking at this entire area and preferably from a bicycle seat.
The last few days have seen flat tires and blown tubes but not probelms. Rube and Cres have been very reliable and no complaints from either. A full tune up for both will be needed soon as the pounding on some roads is tremendous. The cobblestones of Europe have nothing on the frost heaves of Canada.
Anyone who is keeping track will be aware that the streak is intact, rain on very day but 3 in the 31 days to date. Had we waited for good weather we would be still in BC. As it is we will enter New Brunswick tomorrow at Campbellton. Then down along the coast, a pituresque drive. The major deadline ahead is our ferry booking to Newfoundland. We will try to stick to out plan of 200 km daily, but there are demanding ahead.
Earlier I spoke of the sounds of our trip and how it was taking on a unexpected major impression. The joys af nature, birds and animals, the rush of wind the hum of bicycle tires on dry pavemnt, and the hiss on wet. Conversation is possible and I feel at peace with the country. Contrasted with the almost unbearable noise of busy traffic which overwhelmes all senses, not just hearing. Cycling is one of the quiet sports as is Nordic skiing and the "peace of quiet" is one of their chief attractions. Rural cycling is much more fun for Tom and I both and thus we have gone well out of our way to avoid cities. The largely empty roads of 0500-0800 make the early rising totaly worthwhile. Those first 3 hours allow us to look around a lot more whereas later it is full concentration to the road. Also the cool of the day and the sunrise are fully appreciated.
Triva buffs know this. Dehydration is not a problem in tha cold rain so dehydration has been a none factor this trip. Keeping our energy levels has been fun and no major weight changes. Minor scrapes and muscle aches and very few of even these.
Tomorrow promises to be another cool day and the preparation includes getting wet clothing ready for another round. We do not use the sniff test, this is an outside game and odiferous shoes and socks are part of the game. Replenish, repair and rest replace the more traditional 3 R's.
There are a fair number of photos and several logs af our experiences. Perhaps with time we can create a resource for others who may wish to cycle al or parts of the route. Almost to a person the people we have meet are helpful, pleasant and take time for us. Many of the best experiences have just happened and are not the result of careful planning. Planning does allow the freedom to improvise because the basics are al covered. Basics include good friends for travel companions, good fitness, and good equippment. A sense of joy in the little things and at least a small sense of adventure.
Happy Canada Day to all and especially to family. RRM
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
They've made it to Saint-Jean-Port-Joli Day 27, June 30
Another brief report form me as they seem to not have an internet connection. They left around 5:15 his morning and traveled a total of 215 km today, finishing around 5:15. They have arrived in scenic Saint-Jean-Port-Joli and apparently took some time to check out the wood carvings done by local artisans.
It was a good day of biking with only a couple small issues. Ross got a flat tire, but luckily they have spare tires ready and he was able to swap that out and keep moving along. A slightly bigger problem occurred somewhere near Quebec city where Ross and the support vehicle took a wrong turn. Poor signage is being blamed, however Tom relying on his GPS was able to avoid their mistake. After some confusion the Ross and the support vehicle figured out there mistake but Tom had made it 30km ahead of them by that point.
Of course they will be back at it early tomorrow morning, and are planning to make it to Rimouski.
View Larger Map
It was a good day of biking with only a couple small issues. Ross got a flat tire, but luckily they have spare tires ready and he was able to swap that out and keep moving along. A slightly bigger problem occurred somewhere near Quebec city where Ross and the support vehicle took a wrong turn. Poor signage is being blamed, however Tom relying on his GPS was able to avoid their mistake. After some confusion the Ross and the support vehicle figured out there mistake but Tom had made it 30km ahead of them by that point.
Of course they will be back at it early tomorrow morning, and are planning to make it to Rimouski.
View Larger Map
Tuesday, June 29, 2010
RAIN DAY 26, DAY 29
HELLO FROM BECANCOUR. This is Cres reporting. The humans are out to eat so its my chance. You just get cleaned and they take you out in the rain, again, and again and again. What chance does a bike have? Rain every day but 3 means a bath every day, that is not right, a bath every day, yuk. We are not talking about a nice warm summer shower folks, this driving , cool rain with a north wind as Rube and I are trying to head north east. These guys are plain sily, stay in bed you fools, what is so important that Rube and I have to be cold, wet and risking our gears in these conditions.
We keep looking for that guy who picks the animals 2 by 2 , the 40 days and nights of rain part is on schedule. No sign of the arc either but lots of great farms, vegetables, sod farms. perfetly flat and wonderfullt manicured. Interesting to see the sods being cut. Hundreds of acres of potatoes, all in flower. Fields of corn, soya beans but not mant cattle.
Todat we were routed out at 0510 and underway in early light. Leaving Lachute on highway 158 heading east. The plan was to remain well north of Montreal, and although the traffic became hectic the routs worked well, All through this area there are large and costly homes and estates. Rolling hills and forests but we were south of the Laurentians. Some road construction caused difficulties. The detour posted took us on divided multilane highways and Rube and I said nuts to that. We found our own way around the mess. The official detour added 30 km, ours added 500 meters. Rube is willing to sell the secret for a modest sum.
The original plan was to stay on the north shore and cross at Quebec city, however at Sorel we chose to take a ferry and procede along the south shore on highway 132. This allowed us to avoid all the lights and noise and potholes of Trois Riviers, and Quebec city. Highway 132 is rough in areas with narrow or no paved shoulders but the traffic is reasonable. We lunched in Nicolet, a spacious and prosperous looking town and then moved on to Becanour. Daily run 214 km, average speed 26.3 kmand 8 hours plus spinning our wheels. Great accomodations, with spacious rooms, very new and clean. A separate room for Rube and I, and another bath coming our way. Gravel and grease on brake pads are dangerous, and sandy chains break when stresed, No way we can avoid it.
Next you should hear about what the well dressed biker wears. Sure we get scrubbed and buffed daily. They show up looking like there was not another living creature in the world to see them. Biking attire requires special shoes with cleats that lock onto our pedals. Most bikers wear special shorts with padding to make the narrow saddle more comfortable, and a snug licra top to reduce wind resistance. These tops have 3 pockets in tha back for all manner of goodies. Biking gloves to pad the hands and reduce ulnar nerve damage and a good fitting helmet complets the basics. These should be colorful to make it easy for drivers to see and avoid us.
Our clowns do nothing to enhance Rube and I. No thought to c olors, mix and match becomes mix and no match. Them long johns come out, strpped knee high socks, rain jackets, work gloves ( rather than the elegant biking goves without fingers)and rubber overboots. Next we will be dealing with Welingtons. Our union tells us we have no choice, so we don't tell our friends where we are going in hopes that no one we know will see us. Really, Janet took such pity on us she gave them some great tops. Thanks Janet, now if we can just shake the blue long underwear and knee highs.
Rube and I are really carrying this trip. We continue to do all the work. Valerie and Jenny provide all the support. I expect we will pull this off by July 12 as planned. Kind of a neat thought. Finding our way across about 7500 km and "enjoying " it all. Yup, we'll just go one spin at a time, and soak up the country ( terrible pun but best I could do). Looking forward to Quebec City, Rube wants to race the horse drawn tourist carriages. What a juvenile. Say we saw a neat recumbent bike with a carriage in Lachute. It had 2 paying customers aboard and looked good. Maybe a wekend career.
If the Lord is wiling and the creek don't rise see you soon. That is becoming the most appropriate title for this journey.
Specia; god night to the randchildrn and happy birthday Abby. RRM
We keep looking for that guy who picks the animals 2 by 2 , the 40 days and nights of rain part is on schedule. No sign of the arc either but lots of great farms, vegetables, sod farms. perfetly flat and wonderfullt manicured. Interesting to see the sods being cut. Hundreds of acres of potatoes, all in flower. Fields of corn, soya beans but not mant cattle.
Todat we were routed out at 0510 and underway in early light. Leaving Lachute on highway 158 heading east. The plan was to remain well north of Montreal, and although the traffic became hectic the routs worked well, All through this area there are large and costly homes and estates. Rolling hills and forests but we were south of the Laurentians. Some road construction caused difficulties. The detour posted took us on divided multilane highways and Rube and I said nuts to that. We found our own way around the mess. The official detour added 30 km, ours added 500 meters. Rube is willing to sell the secret for a modest sum.
The original plan was to stay on the north shore and cross at Quebec city, however at Sorel we chose to take a ferry and procede along the south shore on highway 132. This allowed us to avoid all the lights and noise and potholes of Trois Riviers, and Quebec city. Highway 132 is rough in areas with narrow or no paved shoulders but the traffic is reasonable. We lunched in Nicolet, a spacious and prosperous looking town and then moved on to Becanour. Daily run 214 km, average speed 26.3 kmand 8 hours plus spinning our wheels. Great accomodations, with spacious rooms, very new and clean. A separate room for Rube and I, and another bath coming our way. Gravel and grease on brake pads are dangerous, and sandy chains break when stresed, No way we can avoid it.
Next you should hear about what the well dressed biker wears. Sure we get scrubbed and buffed daily. They show up looking like there was not another living creature in the world to see them. Biking attire requires special shoes with cleats that lock onto our pedals. Most bikers wear special shorts with padding to make the narrow saddle more comfortable, and a snug licra top to reduce wind resistance. These tops have 3 pockets in tha back for all manner of goodies. Biking gloves to pad the hands and reduce ulnar nerve damage and a good fitting helmet complets the basics. These should be colorful to make it easy for drivers to see and avoid us.
Our clowns do nothing to enhance Rube and I. No thought to c olors, mix and match becomes mix and no match. Them long johns come out, strpped knee high socks, rain jackets, work gloves ( rather than the elegant biking goves without fingers)and rubber overboots. Next we will be dealing with Welingtons. Our union tells us we have no choice, so we don't tell our friends where we are going in hopes that no one we know will see us. Really, Janet took such pity on us she gave them some great tops. Thanks Janet, now if we can just shake the blue long underwear and knee highs.
Rube and I are really carrying this trip. We continue to do all the work. Valerie and Jenny provide all the support. I expect we will pull this off by July 12 as planned. Kind of a neat thought. Finding our way across about 7500 km and "enjoying " it all. Yup, we'll just go one spin at a time, and soak up the country ( terrible pun but best I could do). Looking forward to Quebec City, Rube wants to race the horse drawn tourist carriages. What a juvenile. Say we saw a neat recumbent bike with a carriage in Lachute. It had 2 paying customers aboard and looked good. Maybe a wekend career.
If the Lord is wiling and the creek don't rise see you soon. That is becoming the most appropriate title for this journey.
Specia; god night to the randchildrn and happy birthday Abby. RRM
Monday, June 28, 2010
Bonjour mes amis June 28
After 14 days in Ontario we rode into Quebec late today. No big change. Today we hit the road at 0530 from Perth. Had a wonderful reception at Canadian Tire on Sunday. Lots of folks, 30 or so biked in with us from Glen Tay, and many more stopped to say hello at Canadian Tire. Valerie reached her target for Jump Start and in every way we enjoyed the event. Thank you all for your support. A day at home was pleasant givi9ng us a chance to catchup with family. Children and grandchildren all visited making an exciting day. Unfortunately we missed Matthew in Westport by about 2 minutes. Maybe a good thing, he would have worn us out. Janet and Wilson joined us at Kelford's and kept us company
Today we were away early accompanied by Trent. He was going to Kempville to school. Off in a light shower and warm weather altogether very pleasant. Trent has way to much early speed for us and soon we were being pulled along at 30-35 kph. We kept yelling uncle only to be reminded that youth is a good thing. Rain soon ceased completely and we arrived at school in 2 hours. Covering the 60 km at about 30 kph. Trent gracefuuly said he was exhausted, probably not even a little tired but good manners imparted from Joan never rest.
Tom and I moved on to enjoy the best day of cycling yet. Overcast, ideal 20 degrees and a tail wind al combined to allow an average speed of 30 kph for the entire 7.5 hours, covering 222 km. The bonus today was chatting with Valerie's aunt and uncle and later in the morning we had lunch with another uncle, Lois'brother, and a character worth meeting, he has a great supply of yarns and jokes. The day was free from mechanical problems. Hopefuuly more to come.
The plan now is to procede along the north shore of the St Laurent to Quebec City, cross by ferry and then along the south shore to the Gaspe Bay and then along the coast throughNew Brunswick. Taking time to visit historical sites and making new friends.
As I'm typing this a great wind has come up and clearly heavy rains are beginning. Great to be inside a covered porch when this is happening.
We last reprted from Rice Lake, south of Peterborough. That morning started as most with poor conditions that soon developed into a steady and at times driving rain. This is now are speciality allowing us to cover almost 200 km as we picked our way along back roads to Tweed, Verona and stoping in Westport. Soaked and happy we were pleased to call it a day. Many of these roads were new to me. Interesting country and many great places to live. I'm impressed by the huge lawns that people keep so well groomed, what dedication.
It occurs to me that a tour of Ontario would certaily be possible. How about a leisurely 4 week tour covering about 100 km daily and fully supported. Perhaps a race from Perth to Thunder Bay and back could be promoted. It has great terrain and would be challenging enough to interest elite athletes. There could be categories for elites cyclists, but also for ordinary folks who are ambitious enough to sign on. Ontario has it all for cycling and you certainly have a different perspective from a bicycle saddle. Example, who knows were Crawford's creek is situated?
This evening I heard Cres and Rube arguing about who's turn it was to tel there story. Finally I said neither today and only if they are well behaved will they be given on opportunity tomorrow.
The big news is that Valerie is back with us for the remainder of the trip. "It's all good" Expect to get shopping updates, fashion statements and political commentary at this location. Now that the support team is at full strength Tom and I are anticipating full "tour de France" services. "Expect if you like baby but"
The storm has blown through, the rain was moderate and now the clouds are magnificent. The setting sun is producing high lights and suddenly tha winds are gone and the clouds are stationary. My favorite reninds me of our minister when I was very young. Bright and friendly on one side and dark and a little frightening on the other side, Also has his nose with the long hairs hanging out.
a most relaxing and easy going day. Canada is a great place to live. RRM
Today we were away early accompanied by Trent. He was going to Kempville to school. Off in a light shower and warm weather altogether very pleasant. Trent has way to much early speed for us and soon we were being pulled along at 30-35 kph. We kept yelling uncle only to be reminded that youth is a good thing. Rain soon ceased completely and we arrived at school in 2 hours. Covering the 60 km at about 30 kph. Trent gracefuuly said he was exhausted, probably not even a little tired but good manners imparted from Joan never rest.
Tom and I moved on to enjoy the best day of cycling yet. Overcast, ideal 20 degrees and a tail wind al combined to allow an average speed of 30 kph for the entire 7.5 hours, covering 222 km. The bonus today was chatting with Valerie's aunt and uncle and later in the morning we had lunch with another uncle, Lois'brother, and a character worth meeting, he has a great supply of yarns and jokes. The day was free from mechanical problems. Hopefuuly more to come.
The plan now is to procede along the north shore of the St Laurent to Quebec City, cross by ferry and then along the south shore to the Gaspe Bay and then along the coast throughNew Brunswick. Taking time to visit historical sites and making new friends.
As I'm typing this a great wind has come up and clearly heavy rains are beginning. Great to be inside a covered porch when this is happening.
We last reprted from Rice Lake, south of Peterborough. That morning started as most with poor conditions that soon developed into a steady and at times driving rain. This is now are speciality allowing us to cover almost 200 km as we picked our way along back roads to Tweed, Verona and stoping in Westport. Soaked and happy we were pleased to call it a day. Many of these roads were new to me. Interesting country and many great places to live. I'm impressed by the huge lawns that people keep so well groomed, what dedication.
It occurs to me that a tour of Ontario would certaily be possible. How about a leisurely 4 week tour covering about 100 km daily and fully supported. Perhaps a race from Perth to Thunder Bay and back could be promoted. It has great terrain and would be challenging enough to interest elite athletes. There could be categories for elites cyclists, but also for ordinary folks who are ambitious enough to sign on. Ontario has it all for cycling and you certainly have a different perspective from a bicycle saddle. Example, who knows were Crawford's creek is situated?
This evening I heard Cres and Rube arguing about who's turn it was to tel there story. Finally I said neither today and only if they are well behaved will they be given on opportunity tomorrow.
The big news is that Valerie is back with us for the remainder of the trip. "It's all good" Expect to get shopping updates, fashion statements and political commentary at this location. Now that the support team is at full strength Tom and I are anticipating full "tour de France" services. "Expect if you like baby but"
The storm has blown through, the rain was moderate and now the clouds are magnificent. The setting sun is producing high lights and suddenly tha winds are gone and the clouds are stationary. My favorite reninds me of our minister when I was very young. Bright and friendly on one side and dark and a little frightening on the other side, Also has his nose with the long hairs hanging out.
a most relaxing and easy going day. Canada is a great place to live. RRM
Sunday, June 27, 2010
Sunday june 27
What a great day!!!
The boys started from Westport met around 30 bikers at the Harper rd and highway 7, they were escorted by 2 firetrucks and a police car thanks dan P
The Bq was a huge success alot of visitors and a lot of donations. finsished about 1.
thanks to my sisters and thier families for helping, my 3 kids , janet and dave and Nancy and Lorny great bqing.
Thankyou to everyone that donated and supported the bq, we raised $1060. What a great donation we have for Jump start. Also thanks to feathers for getting her way to CT and giving her support thanks Deb.
We really appreciate everyones support and best wishes as Tom and Ross continue thier venture across Canada. Jenny and I will look after them. val B
The boys started from Westport met around 30 bikers at the Harper rd and highway 7, they were escorted by 2 firetrucks and a police car thanks dan P
The Bq was a huge success alot of visitors and a lot of donations. finsished about 1.
thanks to my sisters and thier families for helping, my 3 kids , janet and dave and Nancy and Lorny great bqing.
Thankyou to everyone that donated and supported the bq, we raised $1060. What a great donation we have for Jump start. Also thanks to feathers for getting her way to CT and giving her support thanks Deb.
We really appreciate everyones support and best wishes as Tom and Ross continue thier venture across Canada. Jenny and I will look after them. val B
Sunday June 27
The boys are arriving in Perth!!!!!
Meet at the Harper rd and #7 at 10:15 if you want to bike in town with tom and ross they are being escorted by a fire truck and the police to Canadian Tire where a Bq is on 1030-1230 for a meet and greet and a fund raiser for JUMP START.
today is a rest day they leve at 5:00 am tomorrow heading to Alexadria on the way to St. John's NFLD.
will up date blog later for friday ride valB
Meet at the Harper rd and #7 at 10:15 if you want to bike in town with tom and ross they are being escorted by a fire truck and the police to Canadian Tire where a Bq is on 1030-1230 for a meet and greet and a fund raiser for JUMP START.
today is a rest day they leve at 5:00 am tomorrow heading to Alexadria on the way to St. John's NFLD.
will up date blog later for friday ride valB
Friday, June 25, 2010
June 25, terible to great
Hello from Elmhirst Resort on Rice Lake, south of Keene which is south of Peterboro.Wonderful resort, grounds are great, we have a 3 bedroom, fully equipped cottage, our own deck and waterfront. Best of all we hear birds not great trucks roaring down the road. Fine dining offered, defer to another day. This would be great for a weekend or more.
Yesterday Rube told his story and Cres was a little shy. Today they both want to share with you. The story is yours boys.
You have never experienced such a day, certainy I have not. This is Cres speaking and in my young life there has never been such a day. They got us started at 0525 and all seemed routine for the first 4 minutes. It was `14 degrees, pretty good, and brighter than many starts, no rain and the air was calm. So what could go wrong.
Rube, my bud, and I knew they would be expecting great things from us after yesterdays final run. Ok , we were wiling to give it a try. Shelburne to Orangevile via #10 was the first leg and diod we get a wake up call. The driving lanes are narrow, no paved shoulders and the traffic was crazy. This was 0530 yet, can you believe it the commuter mentality is new to us. I am a bicycle, my tires are 23 mm wide, I balance on approx 2 cm squared of tire, about the size of stileto heels. I am asked to hussle along at 25-40 kph so any pavment defect, or gravel or glass etc really gives me the willies. Commuters are in a hurry, probably they get the coffee cheaper if they get there faster. Commuters don't give way for anything. They don't slow, they don't shift over in their lane, but they do tout. Early in the morning, city truck drivers are angry. They challenge the world, get out of my way. Now!
You have the picture. It was past scary, Rube and I were certain we would be in the junk heap any second. Hundreds of times vehicles were 10 cm from my handlebars. It hurts just to think what would happen if I shifted even a little. Hell, even Big Ben wasn't perfect and balked once or twice.
At Ornageville we swung onto #9 and incrediably it became more intense. All the wat to Newmarket, over # 400 and # 404. We kept the pedals flying, Rube and and I averaged 29.9 kph through the 65 km section. Way to afraid to slow down as we were certain that later in the morning it would be worse. When that bit was over it all settled down. Listen all you bicycles don'e ever take these roads during traffic hours, this definetly is not fun.
The rest of the day we picked our way through grand country side, all back roads with little traffic and very fine homes and prosperous farms. Lunch break was shared with some Harleys, these were a club out to wake the world, straight pipes a barking and growling. Ops I forgot to tell you about the awful noise when we were in the traffic jungle, I'll have reruns of that for sure. Back to the Harleys, good guys but so superior, so Rube invited them for a race the only rule being their noise level could be no greater than his. No sale. These guys were off for a weekend and promised to support Jump Start.
Keene was to be our stop point for the day but Rube couldn't find a place to stay. We visited a neat store , the owner helped us find this resort and got us a discount. He had a picture framing business, a barbers chair and pool tables and paintings for sale, all in the same room. The sort of place you feel instantly at ease and we learned his son was flying to Victoria in few days to be with his uncle and cousin. He was very impressed with Rube and I but fortunately didn't try to ride us. It is so hard teaching everyone that riding a bike and riding us is a different skill. Like Big Ben, we can give a superior preformance but it takes a ittle practise or you will hurt us and yourself.
My day had 215 km, with average speed of 27.8 kph and a maximum of 59 kph. We spun along for almost 8 hours, all dry and warm. Tomorrow we wil be picking our wat towards Tweed and Verona.
Yesterday I had planned on summarizing our adventures to date, but today was a new deal and the summary will come a little latter. From Rube and I, bye for now and keep your chain well lubricated. RRM
Yesterday Rube told his story and Cres was a little shy. Today they both want to share with you. The story is yours boys.
You have never experienced such a day, certainy I have not. This is Cres speaking and in my young life there has never been such a day. They got us started at 0525 and all seemed routine for the first 4 minutes. It was `14 degrees, pretty good, and brighter than many starts, no rain and the air was calm. So what could go wrong.
Rube, my bud, and I knew they would be expecting great things from us after yesterdays final run. Ok , we were wiling to give it a try. Shelburne to Orangevile via #10 was the first leg and diod we get a wake up call. The driving lanes are narrow, no paved shoulders and the traffic was crazy. This was 0530 yet, can you believe it the commuter mentality is new to us. I am a bicycle, my tires are 23 mm wide, I balance on approx 2 cm squared of tire, about the size of stileto heels. I am asked to hussle along at 25-40 kph so any pavment defect, or gravel or glass etc really gives me the willies. Commuters are in a hurry, probably they get the coffee cheaper if they get there faster. Commuters don't give way for anything. They don't slow, they don't shift over in their lane, but they do tout. Early in the morning, city truck drivers are angry. They challenge the world, get out of my way. Now!
You have the picture. It was past scary, Rube and I were certain we would be in the junk heap any second. Hundreds of times vehicles were 10 cm from my handlebars. It hurts just to think what would happen if I shifted even a little. Hell, even Big Ben wasn't perfect and balked once or twice.
At Ornageville we swung onto #9 and incrediably it became more intense. All the wat to Newmarket, over # 400 and # 404. We kept the pedals flying, Rube and and I averaged 29.9 kph through the 65 km section. Way to afraid to slow down as we were certain that later in the morning it would be worse. When that bit was over it all settled down. Listen all you bicycles don'e ever take these roads during traffic hours, this definetly is not fun.
The rest of the day we picked our way through grand country side, all back roads with little traffic and very fine homes and prosperous farms. Lunch break was shared with some Harleys, these were a club out to wake the world, straight pipes a barking and growling. Ops I forgot to tell you about the awful noise when we were in the traffic jungle, I'll have reruns of that for sure. Back to the Harleys, good guys but so superior, so Rube invited them for a race the only rule being their noise level could be no greater than his. No sale. These guys were off for a weekend and promised to support Jump Start.
Keene was to be our stop point for the day but Rube couldn't find a place to stay. We visited a neat store , the owner helped us find this resort and got us a discount. He had a picture framing business, a barbers chair and pool tables and paintings for sale, all in the same room. The sort of place you feel instantly at ease and we learned his son was flying to Victoria in few days to be with his uncle and cousin. He was very impressed with Rube and I but fortunately didn't try to ride us. It is so hard teaching everyone that riding a bike and riding us is a different skill. Like Big Ben, we can give a superior preformance but it takes a ittle practise or you will hurt us and yourself.
My day had 215 km, with average speed of 27.8 kph and a maximum of 59 kph. We spun along for almost 8 hours, all dry and warm. Tomorrow we wil be picking our wat towards Tweed and Verona.
Yesterday I had planned on summarizing our adventures to date, but today was a new deal and the summary will come a little latter. From Rube and I, bye for now and keep your chain well lubricated. RRM
Thursday, June 24, 2010
June 24, Rube
Helo from Shelburne, a beautiful evening reaxing after a 201km run. Yesterday you meet our bicycles , a Specialized Rubaix and a Opus Crescendo. They have asked to tell todays story.I don't know what they want to say but here goes. Over to you guys.
Thanks. My name is Rubaix and my friend is Crescendo, we prefer to be called Rube and Cres. Tonight Cres has allowed me to tell our story
I am a highly sophisticated road bike and have preformed very well for 3 years. This spring I had a full overhall and was in wonderful form when this trip began. I looked great, my waist was trim and weight was low , I was in perfect form. My friend Opus is younger then I, but the result of advanced engineering and a worthy companion for the trip. We got to know and respect each other while we were training our riders this sprig. Opus looks great in white with some pumpkin trim. I'M a little jealous as my standar blue isn't exciting. We have the best of wheels, fancy narrow saddles, and all covered with super tires and tubes. I must admit I have enjoyed all the attention.
For approximately a week I have had a problem. The chump rider thought the cleats that lock the shoes to the pedals. Despite my efforts he cont't to ignore me, so of coarse I was angry and made him work harder. Stil no response. Com'on friend do I have to draw you a picture.
Today was the last straw. I could barely go on and still I'm ignored. All I hear is you will get better with new cleats. Yes!
Cres and I are on the road at 0525 leaving Tobermory in the rain and fog, and we are hurting, I mean hurting. 90 km later I quit. No more for you my friend, don't look after me, walk.
When he finally looked even this bozzo could see big problems with my cranks. So what does he do. Just puts me aside and takes black beauty out of the van, Don'te wrong, I ike some Cervello's, but this guy has never been dirty wet or tired. I'm in the van and out of play. Cres went quite over that move. Don't despair the story gets better.
25 km later in Owen Sound there is a shop called Cycleface, and a wonderful man who took me in and looked me over. I could kiss this man, he knew so much and was so kind to me. He dropped what he was doing, and immediately started to define my needs. Liteally the door to tool time was 3 minutes. Take that Seattle cardiac card system.
Short version is a new Bottom bracket, new crank and crank arms and new chain were required. My original equippment was carbon fiber and stood up for about 7000 km but today new parts were needed. Those of you who wonder what these parts are, the botom bracket connects the crank to the frame, the crank has all those points that catec the chain and the arms hold the pedals. Yes all the power parts were worn , loose and ineffecient. Exactly as I have been trying to get the rider to notice. Fool, I had to fall apart before he reay looked. With this and new tires and I'm back to myself, ready to fly, effecient and reliable.
Cres only needed some new rubber and chains, and looks great The new tires are red, wow they roll beautifully. 75 minutes after arriving we were underway. Smiling because we both felt so good with our new parts, the sun had replacer the rain. Happy enough to give our riders the best run of the trip. We were flying on our own, they ony thought they were doing it. Believe me Cres and I did it all.
We spoke to out friend the big Blow, and he got on side for the first time and pushed us along. Wow what a team, wind and Cres and I realy got things going and we covered the next 100 km at 35 kph. You should see the smiles on their faces. Tomorow they will be looking for the same effort , no matter what you do they always are wanting more. Fools, there is a limit, let them enjoy what they have. The philosophy of always faster, better, more upon more is a recipie for disaster.
The other neat think that happened today was a meeting with Wiarton Willie. A regular guy who gets a lot of attention where ever he goes. He has the shortest work year of anyone I know. I think he is a little bored and may be loking for another gig.
Coming down # 10 frok Owen Sound to Shelburne was getting into the fancy homes, and hobby farms with pet and spoiled horses, fat cats and yappy dogs. Yes I'm a little bitter. I bounce along on poor roads, abused and igorned and hurting and they do nothing but eat and sleep and look good. Let them work 10 hours a day and see how they feel about chasing a poor tired bicycle.
That's my story for today. Cres has a story for tomorrow but he's kind of shy so you will have to persuade him. RRM
Thanks. My name is Rubaix and my friend is Crescendo, we prefer to be called Rube and Cres. Tonight Cres has allowed me to tell our story
I am a highly sophisticated road bike and have preformed very well for 3 years. This spring I had a full overhall and was in wonderful form when this trip began. I looked great, my waist was trim and weight was low , I was in perfect form. My friend Opus is younger then I, but the result of advanced engineering and a worthy companion for the trip. We got to know and respect each other while we were training our riders this sprig. Opus looks great in white with some pumpkin trim. I'M a little jealous as my standar blue isn't exciting. We have the best of wheels, fancy narrow saddles, and all covered with super tires and tubes. I must admit I have enjoyed all the attention.
For approximately a week I have had a problem. The chump rider thought the cleats that lock the shoes to the pedals. Despite my efforts he cont't to ignore me, so of coarse I was angry and made him work harder. Stil no response. Com'on friend do I have to draw you a picture.
Today was the last straw. I could barely go on and still I'm ignored. All I hear is you will get better with new cleats. Yes!
Cres and I are on the road at 0525 leaving Tobermory in the rain and fog, and we are hurting, I mean hurting. 90 km later I quit. No more for you my friend, don't look after me, walk.
When he finally looked even this bozzo could see big problems with my cranks. So what does he do. Just puts me aside and takes black beauty out of the van, Don'te wrong, I ike some Cervello's, but this guy has never been dirty wet or tired. I'm in the van and out of play. Cres went quite over that move. Don't despair the story gets better.
25 km later in Owen Sound there is a shop called Cycleface, and a wonderful man who took me in and looked me over. I could kiss this man, he knew so much and was so kind to me. He dropped what he was doing, and immediately started to define my needs. Liteally the door to tool time was 3 minutes. Take that Seattle cardiac card system.
Short version is a new Bottom bracket, new crank and crank arms and new chain were required. My original equippment was carbon fiber and stood up for about 7000 km but today new parts were needed. Those of you who wonder what these parts are, the botom bracket connects the crank to the frame, the crank has all those points that catec the chain and the arms hold the pedals. Yes all the power parts were worn , loose and ineffecient. Exactly as I have been trying to get the rider to notice. Fool, I had to fall apart before he reay looked. With this and new tires and I'm back to myself, ready to fly, effecient and reliable.
Cres only needed some new rubber and chains, and looks great The new tires are red, wow they roll beautifully. 75 minutes after arriving we were underway. Smiling because we both felt so good with our new parts, the sun had replacer the rain. Happy enough to give our riders the best run of the trip. We were flying on our own, they ony thought they were doing it. Believe me Cres and I did it all.
We spoke to out friend the big Blow, and he got on side for the first time and pushed us along. Wow what a team, wind and Cres and I realy got things going and we covered the next 100 km at 35 kph. You should see the smiles on their faces. Tomorow they will be looking for the same effort , no matter what you do they always are wanting more. Fools, there is a limit, let them enjoy what they have. The philosophy of always faster, better, more upon more is a recipie for disaster.
The other neat think that happened today was a meeting with Wiarton Willie. A regular guy who gets a lot of attention where ever he goes. He has the shortest work year of anyone I know. I think he is a little bored and may be loking for another gig.
Coming down # 10 frok Owen Sound to Shelburne was getting into the fancy homes, and hobby farms with pet and spoiled horses, fat cats and yappy dogs. Yes I'm a little bitter. I bounce along on poor roads, abused and igorned and hurting and they do nothing but eat and sleep and look good. Let them work 10 hours a day and see how they feel about chasing a poor tired bicycle.
That's my story for today. Cres has a story for tomorrow but he's kind of shy so you will have to persuade him. RRM
Wednesday, June 23, 2010
day 23
Hello from the ferry to Tobermory. Boarded today at 1555 exactly on time and smoothly away from the dock.The weather man predicted thunder storm and morning rains. Our concern was a 147 km bike ride through some good hills and a sailing time that was fixed. However, an early start and good effort brought us from Massey to Esponola by 0630. We were very impressed with the town. It looked clean and properous and even more so in comparison to other communities recently visited. Mind you gliding through at 28 kph doesn't give much time to confirm initial impressons. Given that the wind was freshening, the skies were omnious and the forecast was wet, wet and wetter, there was no stopping. The hammer was down and we puffed on. At this point the climbing gets more interesting, but tame compared to days ago. Gary served us a good breakfast in Little Current, and Tom and I shared lies with a fellow cleaning his motorcycle. No luck in getting him to clean our bikes. Full of eggs toast and hash browns we attacked the hills and moved along Manitoulin Island, the largest island in the world surrounded by fresh water.Visitors are the largest resource and we are made to feel comfortable. Looks a gret place to spend some summer, soak up sun and fluids of your choice.
We arrived at South Baymouth by 1230, 2.5 hours prior to check in time, time to relax and eat and chores, including changing my last flat. Jenny took charge of shopping. Valerie is not here to lead the way but Jenny struggles on bravely. Easy for Tom and I, no room in the van for whatever is being contemplated.
The remote parts of the journey are completed, phone and internet communication well be better alowing us to catch up with famiy and friends. We spoke with Chris and he will get some equipment ready for us as we will be underway early on Monday. Four weeks living frm the van, complete with bicycle grease and snacks . At times we forget which is which and eat the grease. Peanut butter works well on bicycle chains. The gleaming clean Opus Crescendo, and Specialized Roubaix are complaining about being ridden hard and put away wet and cold. Road construction leads to mud and fresh tar and water and bugs and sweat, and gater aid and chocolate cookies make it impossible for a bike to look its best. In fact the bikes were overheard saying that if the clowns don't clean up their act there would be no more free ride. It seems that the bikes are doing the work and that is ok with us. Why do they care that our attire looks a little worn, doesn't everyong have a brown streak up there back from knees to scalp. Red power drinks provide a little color to our shorts and even the cleats on our shoes are rebelling at the mud,
Todays ride was 140 km, in 6 hours, with average speed of 24.8 kph. Maximum was 54 kph. The pavement was torture on the derrier, but the traffic was light. We saw more police today than all our other days combined. Another steady diet of wind and even Tom is starting to question what he did to deserve this extra fun. We read about others pushed along at 35-40 kph by a westerly while we challenge the wind from the Maritimes. Rain started after our arrival and now for the first time we are getting something for free as we sail to Tobermory.
Karyn is concerned about diet, no need. Many stores have grandpa cookies, double fudge chocolate cookies is ideal fuel for this engine. Caution though, Tom has evolved beyong that diet and needs a belt. He is struggling to maintAIN HIS DIET, FINISHED FOR KNOW AS WE ARE LANDING.
We arrived at South Baymouth by 1230, 2.5 hours prior to check in time, time to relax and eat and chores, including changing my last flat. Jenny took charge of shopping. Valerie is not here to lead the way but Jenny struggles on bravely. Easy for Tom and I, no room in the van for whatever is being contemplated.
The remote parts of the journey are completed, phone and internet communication well be better alowing us to catch up with famiy and friends. We spoke with Chris and he will get some equipment ready for us as we will be underway early on Monday. Four weeks living frm the van, complete with bicycle grease and snacks . At times we forget which is which and eat the grease. Peanut butter works well on bicycle chains. The gleaming clean Opus Crescendo, and Specialized Roubaix are complaining about being ridden hard and put away wet and cold. Road construction leads to mud and fresh tar and water and bugs and sweat, and gater aid and chocolate cookies make it impossible for a bike to look its best. In fact the bikes were overheard saying that if the clowns don't clean up their act there would be no more free ride. It seems that the bikes are doing the work and that is ok with us. Why do they care that our attire looks a little worn, doesn't everyong have a brown streak up there back from knees to scalp. Red power drinks provide a little color to our shorts and even the cleats on our shoes are rebelling at the mud,
Todays ride was 140 km, in 6 hours, with average speed of 24.8 kph. Maximum was 54 kph. The pavement was torture on the derrier, but the traffic was light. We saw more police today than all our other days combined. Another steady diet of wind and even Tom is starting to question what he did to deserve this extra fun. We read about others pushed along at 35-40 kph by a westerly while we challenge the wind from the Maritimes. Rain started after our arrival and now for the first time we are getting something for free as we sail to Tobermory.
Karyn is concerned about diet, no need. Many stores have grandpa cookies, double fudge chocolate cookies is ideal fuel for this engine. Caution though, Tom has evolved beyong that diet and needs a belt. He is struggling to maintAIN HIS DIET, FINISHED FOR KNOW AS WE ARE LANDING.
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
Day 22, N Shore Lake Huron
Day 22 started at 0345 and we wre underway from Heyden, 15 km north of the Soo. It was not a great start in a driving rain with a brisk easterly blowing. These conditions continued for 4 hours, then showers for 3 hours and gusts of wind that had no difficulty stopping me completely. Later in afternoon temp rose to 17 and only a bit of spitting and the old wind back gave it a rest for 2 hours.
Needless to say we were soaked and despite changing remained wet all day. While working we were warm but stop and rest and listen to the teeth chatter.
This is the poorest stretch of #17 that we have used. The lanes are narrower and a pa eat at the eat at the Dragonflyved shoulder is rare and usually 30 cm wide. The pavement is failing and these folks need a strong local politian. All of this means that the busy highway is a dangerous place to cycle. Here for really the first time we encountered quite a few drivers who would not give us a break. They refused to slow even to the speed limit, they refused to move over in the lane or even to the oncoming lane, whether or not there was oncoming traffic. Until today I was feeling very safe with the care and respect we received especially from truckers. However today has again convinced me that cyclist should drive facing the oncoming traffic. We are more likely to be motivated to get out of the way than any driver. Despite the noise of a truck, quite often they can sneak up behind you before you are aware. I plan to do some research on accidents and see if this would indeed make a difference. Then it could be presented as a public health matter.
The day was 9.5 hours, covering 232 km with an average speed of 24.6 kph. Given the conditions we are very pleased.
If you are ever in Massey eat at the Dragonfly Restorante, I know with that name what can be good, Everything on the menu is exceptional, this from a hydro crew working and eating here and what we sampled was good, but desserts were best ever, anywhere. Also don't miss the washrooms, the decor is worth severa pictures.
The North Shore isn't as spectacular as Lake Superior, and the road doesn't offer as many vistas and with the conditions we kept focused. Tomorrow we have our last of 7 days on #17 and will be happy to sat goodbye to the heavy traffic. There are few signs of properity through this part of the province.
Even on a little holiday like this the bit of planning has paid dividens. Extra tires, tubes, chains, helmets, wheels and firstaid supplies have been useful,We have all the tools andTom is good at using them.
Today has been one of those days when you work hard for hours and have ittle to show for it. The ground was covered and that seemed to consume all our thoughts and energy. No opportunity to visit much with people nor to explore the life in this area. Better luck tomorow. Rain promised, thunder showers etc but only 147 km to the ferry to Tobermory.Hopefuly the rain gear will be at least partialy dry for the first few minutes. We are very pleased we are not camping in tents these nights, those poor devis are soaked da and night and this month never seem to get dry. Motels through here are in range of 40-70 dollars a night, and they wil negotiate. Valerie gave us a lesson in what to say before she left. Jenny is doing well ans is very patient. 900 page books last about 2 days and she has lots. All is well i n this world, hopefuly in yours also. RRM
Needless to say we were soaked and despite changing remained wet all day. While working we were warm but stop and rest and listen to the teeth chatter.
This is the poorest stretch of #17 that we have used. The lanes are narrower and a pa eat at the eat at the Dragonflyved shoulder is rare and usually 30 cm wide. The pavement is failing and these folks need a strong local politian. All of this means that the busy highway is a dangerous place to cycle. Here for really the first time we encountered quite a few drivers who would not give us a break. They refused to slow even to the speed limit, they refused to move over in the lane or even to the oncoming lane, whether or not there was oncoming traffic. Until today I was feeling very safe with the care and respect we received especially from truckers. However today has again convinced me that cyclist should drive facing the oncoming traffic. We are more likely to be motivated to get out of the way than any driver. Despite the noise of a truck, quite often they can sneak up behind you before you are aware. I plan to do some research on accidents and see if this would indeed make a difference. Then it could be presented as a public health matter.
The day was 9.5 hours, covering 232 km with an average speed of 24.6 kph. Given the conditions we are very pleased.
If you are ever in Massey eat at the Dragonfly Restorante, I know with that name what can be good, Everything on the menu is exceptional, this from a hydro crew working and eating here and what we sampled was good, but desserts were best ever, anywhere. Also don't miss the washrooms, the decor is worth severa pictures.
The North Shore isn't as spectacular as Lake Superior, and the road doesn't offer as many vistas and with the conditions we kept focused. Tomorrow we have our last of 7 days on #17 and will be happy to sat goodbye to the heavy traffic. There are few signs of properity through this part of the province.
Even on a little holiday like this the bit of planning has paid dividens. Extra tires, tubes, chains, helmets, wheels and firstaid supplies have been useful,We have all the tools andTom is good at using them.
Today has been one of those days when you work hard for hours and have ittle to show for it. The ground was covered and that seemed to consume all our thoughts and energy. No opportunity to visit much with people nor to explore the life in this area. Better luck tomorow. Rain promised, thunder showers etc but only 147 km to the ferry to Tobermory.Hopefuly the rain gear will be at least partialy dry for the first few minutes. We are very pleased we are not camping in tents these nights, those poor devis are soaked da and night and this month never seem to get dry. Motels through here are in range of 40-70 dollars a night, and they wil negotiate. Valerie gave us a lesson in what to say before she left. Jenny is doing well ans is very patient. 900 page books last about 2 days and she has lots. All is well i n this world, hopefuly in yours also. RRM
Monday, June 21, 2010
LAKE SUPERIOR PRV PARK AND DAY21
Hello from Sault St. Marie on a beautiful sunny, warm evening. Todat started literally with a bang. As we left the motel in Wawa his rear tube exploded. Bad luck wheel, 4th tube to go. Changed and away by 0530.
Great run for first 30 km in about 1 hour and then into Lake Superior Provincial Park. Who knew about this park? Highway 17 passes through and has awesome cycling. Terrain is great, stiff climbs and great descents and good pavement, sometimes good shoulders and always great views. Early am it was 5 degrees, and as the sun rose the mist over the many little lakes was picture perfect. Again early there is little traffic alowing us to enjoy the silence of nature, which of coarse is a special sound ful of creatures chatting, wind playing in the leafs and grasses, and birds directing all activity. I strongly recommend that you try the stretch of road from Baldhead creek to Clearwater river, probaby the best 18 km of biking I have ever done. Largely down slopping, with one fun climb and several steep descents. This park is definetly beckoning me back. Agreed it is not for the novice cyclist but for the average person or skilled it is great. Too soon we were finished out 89 km run throuth the park and back to the climbing expected in htis beautifully rugged area. Great views of Superior, but also many smaller lakes and rivers. Rocks, trees and almost every shade of green the Irish could wish.
ater in the dat at Pancake Bay, and Batchawanda Bay there were kilometers of beautiful sandy beaches, almost deserted. At palces people were wadding out 75 meters for 4 feet of water. Awesome place for children. We expexted bugs, these days at least there were far fewer little pests that in Lanark County. Almost no communities along this route and certainly ater in the day there were lots of trucks and cars.
Todays run was 231 km, at average speed of 25 kph, and maximum of 57kph. This later was down the hill to Montreal River, it is a great descent. Perhaps because we had been cautioned about it on several occasions, and also because it twists and turns I applied the barkes generously. All was wel and will snacking 1 km later Tom commented on my front tire, The whole sidewall had seperated and the tube was prolapsing. The tires are said to last about 2500 km and that one had about 4000km, was it that, or more likely the braking overheating the wheel and damaging a well worn tire. My these particular tires are difficult to mount, both Tom and I were in a sweat before the job was completed. Today again our ascent was 2056 meters, so the legs are teling a story. Our bike computer is calibrated with our weight the bicycle weight, and has GPS input. With all of this it calculates energy consumption, Tom is averaging about 8500 calories a day for his cycling alone. Allowing about 1000 for routine he can and should eat a full meal every 2 hours. Neat stuff, probably not terribly accurate. However when in gets above 20 degrees and sunny dehydration can become a real thing very quickly.
Lake Superior is at its low since 1968, beaches are wider and the affects are unknown, We did see a nude sun worshiper lying on the rocks, with his trusty ATV at his side. However realy very little devepment evident along this part of the lake.
Bikes are cleaned and lubricated ready for the am, we are well fed and ready for another long run tomorrow, hoping ror another 230 km day. Forecast calls for 15 in am, the warmest yet and a 40% chance of showers. swarm showers are all together less threatening than showers at 5 degrees when all the fun factor is suspended.
At present we are following our schedule and hopefully that will translate into a visit to our own beds June 27 th. More to tell then. RRM
Great run for first 30 km in about 1 hour and then into Lake Superior Provincial Park. Who knew about this park? Highway 17 passes through and has awesome cycling. Terrain is great, stiff climbs and great descents and good pavement, sometimes good shoulders and always great views. Early am it was 5 degrees, and as the sun rose the mist over the many little lakes was picture perfect. Again early there is little traffic alowing us to enjoy the silence of nature, which of coarse is a special sound ful of creatures chatting, wind playing in the leafs and grasses, and birds directing all activity. I strongly recommend that you try the stretch of road from Baldhead creek to Clearwater river, probaby the best 18 km of biking I have ever done. Largely down slopping, with one fun climb and several steep descents. This park is definetly beckoning me back. Agreed it is not for the novice cyclist but for the average person or skilled it is great. Too soon we were finished out 89 km run throuth the park and back to the climbing expected in htis beautifully rugged area. Great views of Superior, but also many smaller lakes and rivers. Rocks, trees and almost every shade of green the Irish could wish.
ater in the dat at Pancake Bay, and Batchawanda Bay there were kilometers of beautiful sandy beaches, almost deserted. At palces people were wadding out 75 meters for 4 feet of water. Awesome place for children. We expexted bugs, these days at least there were far fewer little pests that in Lanark County. Almost no communities along this route and certainly ater in the day there were lots of trucks and cars.
Todays run was 231 km, at average speed of 25 kph, and maximum of 57kph. This later was down the hill to Montreal River, it is a great descent. Perhaps because we had been cautioned about it on several occasions, and also because it twists and turns I applied the barkes generously. All was wel and will snacking 1 km later Tom commented on my front tire, The whole sidewall had seperated and the tube was prolapsing. The tires are said to last about 2500 km and that one had about 4000km, was it that, or more likely the braking overheating the wheel and damaging a well worn tire. My these particular tires are difficult to mount, both Tom and I were in a sweat before the job was completed. Today again our ascent was 2056 meters, so the legs are teling a story. Our bike computer is calibrated with our weight the bicycle weight, and has GPS input. With all of this it calculates energy consumption, Tom is averaging about 8500 calories a day for his cycling alone. Allowing about 1000 for routine he can and should eat a full meal every 2 hours. Neat stuff, probably not terribly accurate. However when in gets above 20 degrees and sunny dehydration can become a real thing very quickly.
Lake Superior is at its low since 1968, beaches are wider and the affects are unknown, We did see a nude sun worshiper lying on the rocks, with his trusty ATV at his side. However realy very little devepment evident along this part of the lake.
Bikes are cleaned and lubricated ready for the am, we are well fed and ready for another long run tomorrow, hoping ror another 230 km day. Forecast calls for 15 in am, the warmest yet and a 40% chance of showers. swarm showers are all together less threatening than showers at 5 degrees when all the fun factor is suspended.
At present we are following our schedule and hopefully that will translate into a visit to our own beds June 27 th. More to tell then. RRM
Sunday, June 20, 2010
Father's Day, June 20
Hello from Wawa. Wonderful weather today, 5 degrees at 0530 start and peaked at 23 ing at 50 kph the bright sunshine, with a steady 15 kph wind. Good day to cycle, our plan was to start at 0400 but not enough light until about 0530. This is a surprise as I thought at this time of year we should have about 18 hours of good light a day. All this means riding throught the heat and later in the day. Today 9.8 hours in the sdle, covering 231 km, average speed 25.2 kph, maximum speed 56 km, and climbed 2100 meters. More climbing than most days in the Rookies. Highway 17 around Lake Superior is truly a delight, most has adequate shoulders, if not ideal as in the west. The road twists and turns and offers spectacular vistas every few km. The ups are demanding and keep the engine warm, the descents are fun, more gradual than in the Rockies, with good run outs and the curves are easily manageable. Descending at 50 kph tucked into an aerodynamic position and watching for pavement changes is great but when the big boys blow past the air pressure is enough to cause a wobble that could easily spell disaster. These roads usually have guard posts along the edge with 3 strands of steel cable designed to stop cars. Make an error and hit that with a bike and the bike stops and you are lanuched to land some 30-100 meters in the gully below. Easy to concentrate in these circumstances.
Felow travellers today included 3 cyclists, all heavily laden , 1 going west and 2 east. Also 1 teenager on a skateboard who was going at least 20 km plus. Unfortunately no opportunity to get their stories.
Several turkey hawks and little other wildlife. Hesitate to say this but the insects have not been a factor to date.
All communities along 17 are small allowing everyone to know everyone. People take a great interest in visitors, they stop and offer help, and are always encouraging, "the hill around the bend is real dandy, yup I reckon you'll need a pull up that one" No one seems to know how far it is to the next community, perhaps reflecting on how contented they are at home. Hunting and fishing lodges abound. Lakes are sparsley populated, if at all and are pristine in appearance at least.
Cellular availability has been very spotty for 4 days, meaning that families are as well informed as last week. Fathers Day is passing without either family being able to connect. All the more reason to celebrate later. Thank you guys for letting us take this time.
Canada is amazing, during our journey we have experienced snow, rain and temperature from 0-27 degrees, we have travelled roads where neighbors are 50 km away, we4 have seen spectacular oceans, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, mountains, prairies, etc. We have talked to hundreds of people and have yet to be disappointed. We are now over half way and are able to recommend this holiday to you all. Do it on your bike or your skateboard or car but go bvia the secondary roads and tiny hamlets, people here have more time to share and stories to tell. Each day is a series of new adventures, small and large joys and the opportunity to put a smile on a face or two. Imagine the stories that are being told about these crazy men dressed like Tour de France racers and biking out here where only the deer flies care how fast they are going. "and you know one is so old he'll attract the vultures"
Tomorrow is another high volume day heading intl Sault St Marie, looking forward to mile high hill.
Daily quiz: how do you calculate the gearing ratio on a bicycle? If the Lord's willing and the creek don"t rise see you all again. RRM
Felow travellers today included 3 cyclists, all heavily laden , 1 going west and 2 east. Also 1 teenager on a skateboard who was going at least 20 km plus. Unfortunately no opportunity to get their stories.
Several turkey hawks and little other wildlife. Hesitate to say this but the insects have not been a factor to date.
All communities along 17 are small allowing everyone to know everyone. People take a great interest in visitors, they stop and offer help, and are always encouraging, "the hill around the bend is real dandy, yup I reckon you'll need a pull up that one" No one seems to know how far it is to the next community, perhaps reflecting on how contented they are at home. Hunting and fishing lodges abound. Lakes are sparsley populated, if at all and are pristine in appearance at least.
Cellular availability has been very spotty for 4 days, meaning that families are as well informed as last week. Fathers Day is passing without either family being able to connect. All the more reason to celebrate later. Thank you guys for letting us take this time.
Canada is amazing, during our journey we have experienced snow, rain and temperature from 0-27 degrees, we have travelled roads where neighbors are 50 km away, we4 have seen spectacular oceans, lakes, rivers, waterfalls, mountains, prairies, etc. We have talked to hundreds of people and have yet to be disappointed. We are now over half way and are able to recommend this holiday to you all. Do it on your bike or your skateboard or car but go bvia the secondary roads and tiny hamlets, people here have more time to share and stories to tell. Each day is a series of new adventures, small and large joys and the opportunity to put a smile on a face or two. Imagine the stories that are being told about these crazy men dressed like Tour de France racers and biking out here where only the deer flies care how fast they are going. "and you know one is so old he'll attract the vultures"
Tomorrow is another high volume day heading intl Sault St Marie, looking forward to mile high hill.
Daily quiz: how do you calculate the gearing ratio on a bicycle? If the Lord's willing and the creek don"t rise see you all again. RRM
Saturday, June 19, 2010
DAY 19
Made it as far as Terrace Bay today 212km ride with many hills on last 70km but we pushed throught . Had a big supper now off to bed up early bike to Wawa , hope to have THE wind on your backs. TOM
Friday, June 18, 2010
Day 18, Rest
hello from Thunder Bay. We are shocked by the tragic news from Perth. It makes all of this seem even more trival than it did prior to these devasting events. Our support to everyone affected.
Today started 1 hour too early as I hoped we could be biking by 0430 and it was too dark until 0530. A quick way to decrease your stock. Rain and light winds and 14 degrees. Rain cleared almost immediately, the winds freshened and by mid morning, wait for it, they were over our shoulder!We left hwy #17 to 102 into Thunder Bay. This was the fastest spin of the trip. Wind almost fully in our back, and with2 excptions it was largely evel or downhil. One thriling long, curved downhill run with somewhat uneven pavement meant we were on the binders to keep the speed below 60 kph. We arrived and checked into the landmark Hotel by noon, after a 125 km rest day. Later we wil explore the city.
Yesterday was a different story with our nemsis blowing directly in our faces all day. A 195 km run took almost 8 hours in the saddle and many rest stops to complete. The imfo we worked with suggested that Hwy 17 would be poor for biking. That was not our experience. The pavement was good to excellent, the travel lanes were wide, and much had good, paved shoulders. The drivers were very helpful. The truckers in particular were helpful. The driver of a Same Day rig who slowed to give me space rather than dust bye me too close for comfort, Thanks.
Our pland for Hwy 11 were changed when we learned of 25 km of major construction that cars were having problems with. After leaving Dryden early as usual, we passed through Wabigoon, great name , then breakfast in Ignace at Subway, great fresh bread but the local gardiner was not pleased with us. We have developed the habit of parking our bikes in the window outside the restaurant because we don't lock them. At the Subway there was a garden bed with a few plants and these wre chocked by the weeds. Evidently we were wrong, and parking here drew his ire.
Back on the road it was now getting hot and a 1500 calories later we were in English River for lunch at a hunting lodge like restaurant.Great meal but even better stories, including a moose raised by a local and as a full grown adult was harnessed and used to pull loge from the woods. Also great fishing trophies on the walls.
Upsala was our goal for the day. A long hot grind. Our tip, the Schell station there serves fresh, home cooked meals and wonderful desserts. It is also the bus terminal, and we meet many locals folk, including 5 "plain " folk.A great place to spend a few hours. Ther are about 300 people in the winter and 2000 in summer, the 8 resorts provide all the employment.
The next 5 days are all very high volume days, perhaps to high, and may be modified. Today we are on schedule, but a plan developed at the kitchen table in Feb. is about to crash into a wall of reality, tiring muscles , sore backs and shoulders and saddle sores.
Why Jump Start? Valerie and Tom wanted to use the trip to some extra purpose. My idea was to go for ride and see how it turns out and have some fun on the way. Really nothing of interest to nyone, and certainly not to be shared beyond our families. Based on this approach we thought a program that was aimed at helping others have fun was appropriate. Having fun is something I talk to people about and the converstion can be very revealing. The importance of having fun has been impressed upon me by a wonderful couple, Bill and Marion. Marion was an invalid at home and stil she insisted that Bill take some time for himself to have fun. So he took up horse back riding at 80 plusand is going strong at 99.75 years. A lesson not to be forgotten. Jump Start is designed to provide for children so they can participate in sport, one route to fun, and consistent with our personal approach.
We are having fun, most of the time, doing something as simple as pedaling down the road and chatting with people, enjoying the scenery, and the challenge of alwys more asphalt ahead. Most of you will have more elaborate plans. Go for it!Just Giv'er! RRM
Today started 1 hour too early as I hoped we could be biking by 0430 and it was too dark until 0530. A quick way to decrease your stock. Rain and light winds and 14 degrees. Rain cleared almost immediately, the winds freshened and by mid morning, wait for it, they were over our shoulder!We left hwy #17 to 102 into Thunder Bay. This was the fastest spin of the trip. Wind almost fully in our back, and with2 excptions it was largely evel or downhil. One thriling long, curved downhill run with somewhat uneven pavement meant we were on the binders to keep the speed below 60 kph. We arrived and checked into the landmark Hotel by noon, after a 125 km rest day. Later we wil explore the city.
Yesterday was a different story with our nemsis blowing directly in our faces all day. A 195 km run took almost 8 hours in the saddle and many rest stops to complete. The imfo we worked with suggested that Hwy 17 would be poor for biking. That was not our experience. The pavement was good to excellent, the travel lanes were wide, and much had good, paved shoulders. The drivers were very helpful. The truckers in particular were helpful. The driver of a Same Day rig who slowed to give me space rather than dust bye me too close for comfort, Thanks.
Our pland for Hwy 11 were changed when we learned of 25 km of major construction that cars were having problems with. After leaving Dryden early as usual, we passed through Wabigoon, great name , then breakfast in Ignace at Subway, great fresh bread but the local gardiner was not pleased with us. We have developed the habit of parking our bikes in the window outside the restaurant because we don't lock them. At the Subway there was a garden bed with a few plants and these wre chocked by the weeds. Evidently we were wrong, and parking here drew his ire.
Back on the road it was now getting hot and a 1500 calories later we were in English River for lunch at a hunting lodge like restaurant.Great meal but even better stories, including a moose raised by a local and as a full grown adult was harnessed and used to pull loge from the woods. Also great fishing trophies on the walls.
Upsala was our goal for the day. A long hot grind. Our tip, the Schell station there serves fresh, home cooked meals and wonderful desserts. It is also the bus terminal, and we meet many locals folk, including 5 "plain " folk.A great place to spend a few hours. Ther are about 300 people in the winter and 2000 in summer, the 8 resorts provide all the employment.
The next 5 days are all very high volume days, perhaps to high, and may be modified. Today we are on schedule, but a plan developed at the kitchen table in Feb. is about to crash into a wall of reality, tiring muscles , sore backs and shoulders and saddle sores.
Why Jump Start? Valerie and Tom wanted to use the trip to some extra purpose. My idea was to go for ride and see how it turns out and have some fun on the way. Really nothing of interest to nyone, and certainly not to be shared beyond our families. Based on this approach we thought a program that was aimed at helping others have fun was appropriate. Having fun is something I talk to people about and the converstion can be very revealing. The importance of having fun has been impressed upon me by a wonderful couple, Bill and Marion. Marion was an invalid at home and stil she insisted that Bill take some time for himself to have fun. So he took up horse back riding at 80 plusand is going strong at 99.75 years. A lesson not to be forgotten. Jump Start is designed to provide for children so they can participate in sport, one route to fun, and consistent with our personal approach.
We are having fun, most of the time, doing something as simple as pedaling down the road and chatting with people, enjoying the scenery, and the challenge of alwys more asphalt ahead. Most of you will have more elaborate plans. Go for it!Just Giv'er! RRM
Thursday, June 17, 2010
day 17
Made it to Upsala On today 195km with head wind again, warm out 26c hyw 17 not as bad as we thought it would be . Off to bed early start tomorrow heading to Thunder Bay hope for wind in your backs .
Wednesday, June 16, 2010
WW7 and last few days
Hello from Dryden, Ont. This our 16th day of wandering at our leisure. The weather has changed from the first 12 days which were, wet windy and cool, about 1-7 degrees. This trip was planned to take advantage of the prevailing westerly winds across Canada. We havw been blessed by daily easterly winds allowing us to cycle longer and harder to go the same distance. Could there be too much of a good thing?
Yesterday Tom and I saw a bear crossing the road and he ran quickly when I growled at him, Aso saw numerous deer and a brown owl, quite large and within60 meters. All these sightings were on a secondary highway #44 from whitemouth to West Hawk Lake. we shared the road with deer flies and mosquitoes. They can attack at cycling speed. They do so with accuracy and precision, always targeting a volunerable area that is unreachable while underway, This road stretchs through some scrubb forest and has almost no sign of human inhabitation. One of the few places in Canada where you can be both unable to go to Tim's, and not guided by the Golden Arch. We stopped at Rennie and had a wonderful lunch at the Rennie Hotel, it was at its best about 75 years ago but hasn't needed a thing since. The owner entertained us with local lore. Rennie is ubdergoing a population explosion over the last 2 years from 79 to 102. And, and that doesn,t included the 32 cotyages on the lake and some of those people are there year round. His wife argues they can get medical help in 1 hour or so, which is certainly faster that in any metropolitian community in Canada.
I would like to share the stories and lives we are seeing but that wil take far more time and perhaps latter.
Currently we are into high volume cycling, spending 8-10 hours a day spinning so with rests about 12-14 hours a day. It is gret fun to see what is over the next hill or around the corner. However on the praries it takes about 15 km to reach the next grain elevator. Biking into the wind you put your head downm tuck into as aerodynamic a position as your body can hold and grind away. 20 minutes later you look again and the elevator hasn't changed, after a dozen times of doing this the rookies start to look good. Have to mention the prarie farmer who stopped to chat us up and give us some good advice. He was impressed with Tom's career but clearly thought lttle of mine. Believe me I didn't explore that.
Today back in Ontario after 14 days, and wil take that to cross the big blue province. Northern On has been a treat, warm to plane hot, 29 degrees and you guessed our prevaiing easterly winds at 15 kph. We both are thrilled to be back in the precambrian shield with roads that twist and turn, ups and downs, an d pavement that varies fron banna ceam to 2 day old porridge. The last days have been 222 km, 243 km, 260 km, 201, 202 km, and this seems sustainable with a little luck, Several flats and one worn out tire and lots of time cleaning sand and mud from the running gear, Tom has had his fall so we are both over that and looking forward to a dazzling display of skils. Nothing less dazzling than my decision to use the ring road in Winnipeg rather than cycle 10 km through the city. Good idea but the damn ring is about 100 km, we did half or so and it was 45 km, I was so angry with myself I had power to burn for hours.
Kenora is one of the places in Canada I could life happily. Dryden also scenic but hasn't tickled my fancy as much. We wil ikely go through another few days when internet services are less available. Hope to tell more about the sounds of Canada from the bicycle seat. Today birds were amazing, yesterdays owl made a tremendous racket taking of, the ducks and frogs. Little 5 year olds wondering what we are doing and then why we are. The sounds of morning coffee in all styles of shops, morning winding up and noon frying to a stop the last 2 days. Working on road construction in 29 degree sunsahine and spreading asphalt at 75 degrees celius is a job for the strong.
Special hello to the big 6 and the wiser 7. My favorite mind game when pedaling is to think of the people in my life and create great stories for them. Perhaps worth sharing but expect surprises, because this trip is all about my Mom's teaching. Work before play. Night all.
Yesterday Tom and I saw a bear crossing the road and he ran quickly when I growled at him, Aso saw numerous deer and a brown owl, quite large and within60 meters. All these sightings were on a secondary highway #44 from whitemouth to West Hawk Lake. we shared the road with deer flies and mosquitoes. They can attack at cycling speed. They do so with accuracy and precision, always targeting a volunerable area that is unreachable while underway, This road stretchs through some scrubb forest and has almost no sign of human inhabitation. One of the few places in Canada where you can be both unable to go to Tim's, and not guided by the Golden Arch. We stopped at Rennie and had a wonderful lunch at the Rennie Hotel, it was at its best about 75 years ago but hasn't needed a thing since. The owner entertained us with local lore. Rennie is ubdergoing a population explosion over the last 2 years from 79 to 102. And, and that doesn,t included the 32 cotyages on the lake and some of those people are there year round. His wife argues they can get medical help in 1 hour or so, which is certainly faster that in any metropolitian community in Canada.
I would like to share the stories and lives we are seeing but that wil take far more time and perhaps latter.
Currently we are into high volume cycling, spending 8-10 hours a day spinning so with rests about 12-14 hours a day. It is gret fun to see what is over the next hill or around the corner. However on the praries it takes about 15 km to reach the next grain elevator. Biking into the wind you put your head downm tuck into as aerodynamic a position as your body can hold and grind away. 20 minutes later you look again and the elevator hasn't changed, after a dozen times of doing this the rookies start to look good. Have to mention the prarie farmer who stopped to chat us up and give us some good advice. He was impressed with Tom's career but clearly thought lttle of mine. Believe me I didn't explore that.
Today back in Ontario after 14 days, and wil take that to cross the big blue province. Northern On has been a treat, warm to plane hot, 29 degrees and you guessed our prevaiing easterly winds at 15 kph. We both are thrilled to be back in the precambrian shield with roads that twist and turn, ups and downs, an d pavement that varies fron banna ceam to 2 day old porridge. The last days have been 222 km, 243 km, 260 km, 201, 202 km, and this seems sustainable with a little luck, Several flats and one worn out tire and lots of time cleaning sand and mud from the running gear, Tom has had his fall so we are both over that and looking forward to a dazzling display of skils. Nothing less dazzling than my decision to use the ring road in Winnipeg rather than cycle 10 km through the city. Good idea but the damn ring is about 100 km, we did half or so and it was 45 km, I was so angry with myself I had power to burn for hours.
Kenora is one of the places in Canada I could life happily. Dryden also scenic but hasn't tickled my fancy as much. We wil ikely go through another few days when internet services are less available. Hope to tell more about the sounds of Canada from the bicycle seat. Today birds were amazing, yesterdays owl made a tremendous racket taking of, the ducks and frogs. Little 5 year olds wondering what we are doing and then why we are. The sounds of morning coffee in all styles of shops, morning winding up and noon frying to a stop the last 2 days. Working on road construction in 29 degree sunsahine and spreading asphalt at 75 degrees celius is a job for the strong.
Special hello to the big 6 and the wiser 7. My favorite mind game when pedaling is to think of the people in my life and create great stories for them. Perhaps worth sharing but expect surprises, because this trip is all about my Mom's teaching. Work before play. Night all.
DAY 16
Up early cool and fog but nice day to be on a bike in Ontario started just before Kenora biked to Dryden ,good day arrived about 3pm 202km today . Heading to Upsala tomorrow then to Thunder day the next ,it was nice to see the Canadian shield today . Yesterday just before Ontario border we had a bear run across in front of us a small one a but fun to see TOM
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Tuesday Day15
Another short update for today with the limited information that makes it to me. They have made it into Ontario, somewhere close to Kenora. They biked for 12 hours. That means waking up at 4am, and getting on the road by 5am, and traveling just over 200km with conditions described as "nice weather and warm out." This puts them a little ahead of schedule. They are also apparently tired and heading to bed early, which seems understandable to me.
View Larger Map
View Larger Map
Monday Day 14
It seems that Tom and Ross are without an internet connection at the moment. So I will pass along a bit about their travels and hopefully they will be back updating the blog soon. They biked around 240km yesterday in hot and windy conditions. They finished a long day of biking just outside of Winnipeg. I look forward to hearing what they got up to today, as I expect all you do as well.
Sunday, June 13, 2010
sunday day 13
Well the boys had a great day it reached 20 degrees, They are now in Manitoba crossed in at about noon today. They have met a few bikers one group from Norway, another from B.C heading to Montreal then a break, then finish. They hear just ahead of them there some people on horses going across canada they hope to meet them. Ross and Tom biked 244km today they are starting to get caught up from thier 2 windy days, were they lost some ground. They fininshed around Ring around top , near Shoal Lake, they had to drive again tonight to find a bed, around 530 they found one at the Getaway motel, they had dinner there and are heading to bed. Butts are getting a bit soar.
Tom phoned home to see how Scott did in his race which he got 10, his bike would not start at the start line and a crash later losened his handle bars so Mel an I looked after him and off he went in the dust and heat 30 degree in Ferme Neuve Quebec. Tom also told me they couldnt get internet so I Valerie are catching you up from Perth.
Tomorrow Tom , Ross and Jenny who is coping very well with the driving and looking after the 2 bikers, are heading to Winnipeg.
Tom phoned home to see how Scott did in his race which he got 10, his bike would not start at the start line and a crash later losened his handle bars so Mel an I looked after him and off he went in the dust and heat 30 degree in Ferme Neuve Quebec. Tom also told me they couldnt get internet so I Valerie are catching you up from Perth.
Tomorrow Tom , Ross and Jenny who is coping very well with the driving and looking after the 2 bikers, are heading to Winnipeg.
Saturday, June 12, 2010
DAY 12 GOOD DAY 122KM
DAY 12 Got up to blue sky at 4am after toast for breakfast , loaded up to drive to start point, cool 6c with no rain a little wind at 5am . This day went real well mainly because the weather improved it was biking temp , we covered 222km today making to Itona sk only to find a motel that was perfect but the owner decided to go out to a party we had no way to get a room . After driving to Melville sk found a room 60 bucks still has the 60's furniture it’s a bed and shower it will do for tonight .so in the last 24 hours we have covered 270km makes it easy to sleep at night tired legs . Tom
DAY 11 WET WET
Day 11 Got up to rain and wind , and more rain and wind . Biked hard to get to Outlook sk by 1pm very wet , motel and shower felt good . After a rest went back out to do 50km from 6 to 8pm , back to motel for a good sleep . This province has got 8in more rain then normal fields laying water farmers cannot plant crops at all. Hope the Bowes house is still standing and Scott has the tree work well in hand , heading towards Perth with one crack at time . TOM
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Hot tip of the week, day 10
Hello from Kindersley Saskatchewan. We left Alberta early morning, goodbye to Oyen at 0500 hous. We enjoyed rain and headwinds and 6 degree weather, much like a treadmill, work hard for 30 minutes and you are in the same place. Alberta #9 becomes Saskatchewan #7. this is also a straight, due east into the wind, and like an ocean up and down like long rolling waves. Very few vehicles at that time of day, and terrain not as spectacular, but equally intersting for its vastness and hugh fields.
The hot tip of the wek is to stop at Flaxcombe, a community of 119 people with a district school in near by Marengo covering all the grades from kindergarden to grade 12, and 122 students. We arrived at 0845 hours to find the post office come store and eatery opens at 0900. It was worth the wait, we were cold, wet and a little tired and when Eileen arrived at 0900 we were in the door in a flash. Great hot chocolate and fresh rhubarb crisp, the best food of our trip. A small and intimate room, much like a phone booth. A once common structure for Clark Kent to change, and mere mortals, in ancient times, actually talked on hard wire phones. We received a drawing fom Chelsey, a 5 yer old artist and daughter of the owner, in excgange I treated her allergies.
Another 35 kilometers of rain were much easier with that new fuel. Kindersley is the city of the whole area, We had a lunch at Tim's, and meet a lot of locals, who seem to have a lot of time to visit, and were interested to hear out plans. Stories of other cyclists and their adventures, and at Coleville, just north of us had " 5 inches of rain last night" Wow, glad not there.
Kindersley is worth exploring, the first impression is how wide the streets are, how wide are they? They have gas pumps in the median just to get you across. House prices here are similar to Eastern Ontario. This a farming community, with lots of rain and all secondary roads are muddy, muddy, muddy. All locals drive pick-ups with 4 wheel drive and they are all the same coor, muddy brown. Saw a nice little place just out of town for sale. Surrounded by lilac bushes. Nearest neighbour just 5 km away,shouting distance.
After lunch we pushed on another 35 km, and meet a young couple bikikg to Hamilton to attend her best friends wedding, They left Victoria weeks ago and were delayed in Calgary for 4 days waiting for the snow to melt. They had fully loaded panniers, and heavy bikes and were making about 10 kph AND 40 km daily. Last night they had permission to tent on peoples lawn, and when the rains become intense the famiy brought their camper out for them to use. Canadians are wonderful.
We saw some wid animals that we are not able to identify, perhaps a reative of the deer famiy. They certainly bounce along like deer. Lots of birds, who knows the names? Also I wish to report that earth worms in the west are no smarter that ours at home, al come out on the road after a rain.
Tomorrow promises more of the same weather, 98% chance of rain, 6-12 degrees and winds. This will be a big volume day for us, up from the 7 hours in the saddle to probably 9-10 hours. Need I mention that our muscles are not the limiting factor on these days.
The bikes were well behaved today, no rebellion, and no mechanical problems. People are amased by the equipment we use as most cyclist use the heavier bicycles. Our objectives are different and we prefer the more responsive machines, even though the risk of falls is higher. Tom remains very strong and positive, and today and to a lesser extent yesterday we were drafting, and this is helpful especislly in these conditions. Tom is the computer guy, and I am the slug, keep bicycles clean and oiled and all the detail. Good team work, and complete confidence in decision making. On the road it is always safety first, even if it cost us time and effort. The paving of the shoulders is rarely as smooth as the road and therefore takes at least 15% more effort. Yet that is were we cycle, single file, and doing all the things we can to share the road with the hugh vehicles we meet.
Why is it that trucks we meet have a wind wall that will stop our progress and almost knock us off the road whereas the same vehicle that passes us only gives us a few yards of vacuum. We are told about a cyclist who sucked in behind a truck and was able to draft along at 80 kph. Thanks, but no thanks.
Quite a different impresion of the 3 provinces, in BC we saw the affuence, in Alberta we saw both ends of the success spectrum, and in Saskatchewan we are seeing the more modest life styles and the working folks. Everyong has been friendly, but here they are especially open and interested in their guests.
It would be great fun to go horse riding through these parts of Canada. Evan I think I feel an idea coming. Hello to everyone and thanks for your interest. RRM
The hot tip of the wek is to stop at Flaxcombe, a community of 119 people with a district school in near by Marengo covering all the grades from kindergarden to grade 12, and 122 students. We arrived at 0845 hours to find the post office come store and eatery opens at 0900. It was worth the wait, we were cold, wet and a little tired and when Eileen arrived at 0900 we were in the door in a flash. Great hot chocolate and fresh rhubarb crisp, the best food of our trip. A small and intimate room, much like a phone booth. A once common structure for Clark Kent to change, and mere mortals, in ancient times, actually talked on hard wire phones. We received a drawing fom Chelsey, a 5 yer old artist and daughter of the owner, in excgange I treated her allergies.
Another 35 kilometers of rain were much easier with that new fuel. Kindersley is the city of the whole area, We had a lunch at Tim's, and meet a lot of locals, who seem to have a lot of time to visit, and were interested to hear out plans. Stories of other cyclists and their adventures, and at Coleville, just north of us had " 5 inches of rain last night" Wow, glad not there.
Kindersley is worth exploring, the first impression is how wide the streets are, how wide are they? They have gas pumps in the median just to get you across. House prices here are similar to Eastern Ontario. This a farming community, with lots of rain and all secondary roads are muddy, muddy, muddy. All locals drive pick-ups with 4 wheel drive and they are all the same coor, muddy brown. Saw a nice little place just out of town for sale. Surrounded by lilac bushes. Nearest neighbour just 5 km away,shouting distance.
After lunch we pushed on another 35 km, and meet a young couple bikikg to Hamilton to attend her best friends wedding, They left Victoria weeks ago and were delayed in Calgary for 4 days waiting for the snow to melt. They had fully loaded panniers, and heavy bikes and were making about 10 kph AND 40 km daily. Last night they had permission to tent on peoples lawn, and when the rains become intense the famiy brought their camper out for them to use. Canadians are wonderful.
We saw some wid animals that we are not able to identify, perhaps a reative of the deer famiy. They certainly bounce along like deer. Lots of birds, who knows the names? Also I wish to report that earth worms in the west are no smarter that ours at home, al come out on the road after a rain.
Tomorrow promises more of the same weather, 98% chance of rain, 6-12 degrees and winds. This will be a big volume day for us, up from the 7 hours in the saddle to probably 9-10 hours. Need I mention that our muscles are not the limiting factor on these days.
The bikes were well behaved today, no rebellion, and no mechanical problems. People are amased by the equipment we use as most cyclist use the heavier bicycles. Our objectives are different and we prefer the more responsive machines, even though the risk of falls is higher. Tom remains very strong and positive, and today and to a lesser extent yesterday we were drafting, and this is helpful especislly in these conditions. Tom is the computer guy, and I am the slug, keep bicycles clean and oiled and all the detail. Good team work, and complete confidence in decision making. On the road it is always safety first, even if it cost us time and effort. The paving of the shoulders is rarely as smooth as the road and therefore takes at least 15% more effort. Yet that is were we cycle, single file, and doing all the things we can to share the road with the hugh vehicles we meet.
Why is it that trucks we meet have a wind wall that will stop our progress and almost knock us off the road whereas the same vehicle that passes us only gives us a few yards of vacuum. We are told about a cyclist who sucked in behind a truck and was able to draft along at 80 kph. Thanks, but no thanks.
Quite a different impresion of the 3 provinces, in BC we saw the affuence, in Alberta we saw both ends of the success spectrum, and in Saskatchewan we are seeing the more modest life styles and the working folks. Everyong has been friendly, but here they are especially open and interested in their guests.
It would be great fun to go horse riding through these parts of Canada. Evan I think I feel an idea coming. Hello to everyone and thanks for your interest. RRM
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
day t from the first9 completed
sorry about that I can destroy the moving parts of a brick.
Robin
Back to my task, thanks Robin for ERMEP, and thanks to all the staff at both offices. However a special thanks to Eillen, who has supported this project from the onset, and has also done much of the organization.
N
m
Many of you may not know that Pierre did this trip in 2002, and shared his notes with us and they have been very helpful.
I hope that some of this is interesting, Evan's class is following , probably geography, and health, the fun of activity, but they have a bonus,
See who can find the most spelling mistakes. See who can correct ths grammer. Teachers you understand they are all deliberate as part of the educational objectives. You will all understand why I dictate my office notes.
The rain is getting even heavier, Tom is snoring, and I'm hungry. If the Lord is willing and the creek don't rise I'll
Robin
Back to my task, thanks Robin for ERMEP, and thanks to all the staff at both offices. However a special thanks to Eillen, who has supported this project from the onset, and has also done much of the organization.
N
m
Many of you may not know that Pierre did this trip in 2002, and shared his notes with us and they have been very helpful.
I hope that some of this is interesting, Evan's class is following , probably geography, and health, the fun of activity, but they have a bonus,
See who can find the most spelling mistakes. See who can correct ths grammer. Teachers you understand they are all deliberate as part of the educational objectives. You will all understand why I dictate my office notes.
The rain is getting even heavier, Tom is snoring, and I'm hungry. If the Lord is willing and the creek don't rise I'll
SAILING IN ALBERTA, DAY 9
Hello from Oyen Aberta, last night in this amazing province. Tomorrow we hit the big green.
Today started as usual at 0400, al the worry trips, packing, choking down toast and water. Packed and underway in semi dark at 0500. This time prepared for cool and hopefully no rain. Within 5 minutes the cold rain started and didn't stop for 3 hours.
Great ride along highway 9, it runs east and is by west standards a very curvy road, first slight deviation is 35 km fron Hanna, then several bends jammed in on each other with little time to recover between, less than 10-15 km. Fields with not as properous looking ranches, and the occasional pumping oil well. We saw several herds of domestic buffalo. They are hugh, can't imagine hunting them with bow and arrow. Had a buffalo burger a nd it was good. The towns here are not like in BC, there they were all geared for visitors. Here they are commnities of wrking people and few facilities for guests, Mind you we are using secondary roads for obvious reasons.
As the day began the bicycles took over and refused to glide along at 25-35 kph as they should on this terrain. It seems they got together last night and hatched a plan thinking that if they dragged along they could get in the car, and the other 2 bikes would be forced to do a share. They were aided by a wonderful wind that Peter would close his office for and seek out the board. Our problem is we had to point a litte to high into the breeze and have not mastered the tacking necessary to deal with a head wind that became more brisk as the day unfolded. The bikes didn't get their way however, we kept them out in the rain, and despite there pooky effort we competed the170 km run. Should have been 6 hours and was in fact over 8 hours. We wil punish them tonight with a good bath, and reward them with lots of oil.
Today of all days the ride was easy to do, if you lost concentration you were in reverse. I suspect Tom used my name in vain today and so did I, and more than once. The trouble with telling anyone about this trip is now there is an expectation to Robin who complete it, ok with us but anyone who knows the weather man might put in a good word for us. It is common knowledge that travellers aways bring a lot m ore that they need. Perhaps al the warm weather bicycling gear quailfy, our skiing cothing is getting a good workout.
You notice that I have less to report. I can tell you about evry defect in pavement between Hanna and Oyen. One of those days, that happen in life when you can only concentrate on the task at hand,in order to be successful. Head down and keep the legs moving. Sunday we saw hundreds of cyclists, today not another sole. probably their bikes simply refused. Can't imagine doing this trip without the support team of Valerie and Jenny. Today having a car with food and dry clothing made the day possible. Genevieve was there when needed all day, a great pit crew.
Today I would like to say thank you to all the people who with there support allowed me this opportunity to goof off and relax. Without their encouragement and efforts Tom would be at home dry and warm. The silver seven and others who are covering my clinical responsibilites, Eady Mae who charmed Derrick into helpinf at the Lodge,
Today started as usual at 0400, al the worry trips, packing, choking down toast and water. Packed and underway in semi dark at 0500. This time prepared for cool and hopefully no rain. Within 5 minutes the cold rain started and didn't stop for 3 hours.
Great ride along highway 9, it runs east and is by west standards a very curvy road, first slight deviation is 35 km fron Hanna, then several bends jammed in on each other with little time to recover between, less than 10-15 km. Fields with not as properous looking ranches, and the occasional pumping oil well. We saw several herds of domestic buffalo. They are hugh, can't imagine hunting them with bow and arrow. Had a buffalo burger a nd it was good. The towns here are not like in BC, there they were all geared for visitors. Here they are commnities of wrking people and few facilities for guests, Mind you we are using secondary roads for obvious reasons.
As the day began the bicycles took over and refused to glide along at 25-35 kph as they should on this terrain. It seems they got together last night and hatched a plan thinking that if they dragged along they could get in the car, and the other 2 bikes would be forced to do a share. They were aided by a wonderful wind that Peter would close his office for and seek out the board. Our problem is we had to point a litte to high into the breeze and have not mastered the tacking necessary to deal with a head wind that became more brisk as the day unfolded. The bikes didn't get their way however, we kept them out in the rain, and despite there pooky effort we competed the170 km run. Should have been 6 hours and was in fact over 8 hours. We wil punish them tonight with a good bath, and reward them with lots of oil.
Today of all days the ride was easy to do, if you lost concentration you were in reverse. I suspect Tom used my name in vain today and so did I, and more than once. The trouble with telling anyone about this trip is now there is an expectation to Robin who complete it, ok with us but anyone who knows the weather man might put in a good word for us. It is common knowledge that travellers aways bring a lot m ore that they need. Perhaps al the warm weather bicycling gear quailfy, our skiing cothing is getting a good workout.
You notice that I have less to report. I can tell you about evry defect in pavement between Hanna and Oyen. One of those days, that happen in life when you can only concentrate on the task at hand,in order to be successful. Head down and keep the legs moving. Sunday we saw hundreds of cyclists, today not another sole. probably their bikes simply refused. Can't imagine doing this trip without the support team of Valerie and Jenny. Today having a car with food and dry clothing made the day possible. Genevieve was there when needed all day, a great pit crew.
Today I would like to say thank you to all the people who with there support allowed me this opportunity to goof off and relax. Without their encouragement and efforts Tom would be at home dry and warm. The silver seven and others who are covering my clinical responsibilites, Eady Mae who charmed Derrick into helpinf at the Lodge,
Tuesday, June 8, 2010
Day 8, The Great Reunion
Hello from Drumheller
Dat 8 began as al our days, 0400 start to prepare and 0500 start in the rain and temperature 5 degrees. Exactly as we have come to expect, so we are very good at getting the right layers and water proofing to some degree. Today the plan was from Cochrane to Morrin. There are several options for roads and we chose 567 to9, then north on 21 to avoid construction and east on 27 to Morrin. Good climbs, then more level but not as sick as yesterday. Then some long climbs and wind pushing us along like a great propeller. As is our custom in skiing and cycling we each follow our individual pace rather than trying to draft. Yes, we know there is a 15% return from drafting but this works better for us. At each stop we arrive within a very few minutes of each other, and Bob's your uncle.
Today at second stop no Tom, 15 minutes still no Tom, this after a long stretch of bucking a head wind. Mechanical problems, wrong turn, accident, professional worriers at there best. Retrace steps, no tracks, have faith, he wil call if a problem and procede. Checking every 15 minutes an hour goes by, then 90 minutes, ok this needs some thought, accident he would cal, mechanical problems he can handle well, wrong turn, well the GPS should be helpful. Therefore reach Morrin and expect to see an impish grin waiting at ease. Not so, less than 200 meters later there he is eating a sandwhich and chatting with Jenny. GPS had plotted a different route. Best possible answer.
The early prairies roll a ittle, and some deep river valleys that make for great downhil runs. The expanse is easily 5-10 km, and the farms look ike litte oasis of green and trees in these county sized fields, School buses really are needed here, and picking up the scholars is a dirty job judging by the buses. Yesterday saw a Hummer decked out to the tune of a hundred large. Covered in dirt because the ranch roads go on for miles don't you know. The owner was quick to point out that is was also pratical in the winter. Do you think he winters here, he had no calluses and no chewing tobacco. Probably not.
Drumheler has lots of od bones for all of you fans, our crew at moment is more interested in rest. The town has the amazing land formations that allowed the preservation. Seems a great place for a 2 day stop to learn, or perhaps a year or two.
Several different species of deer sen today, coyote, and prairie dogs. ots of birds, and early in day we can here them, ater the traffic overwhelms them.
Hugh farms, small towns, and not much else visible from the roads. Roads run laser straight for km's and only bend when there are deep river beds and a curving approach is needed. Shoulders not as good and pavement varies frm excelent to terrible, ie Ontario standard.
New binolculars, a birthday gift from Val and Tom extent the vista, but the land overwhelms the glasses. Great birthday parth last night with the Alberta connection arriving from afar. Tony, Bonnie and Braden from Red Deer and Teady from Edmonton, bearing a fantistic cake, on the red bullet, and then with Tony. Chocolate with choclate icing, and fully decorated with roads, motorcycle, signs and all the trimmings, most important tasted great. Seconds for certain. Thanks Teady.
We are feeling more con fident as our strength and stamina is tested and found adequate. Tom is amused to find the calluses disappearing from his hands. Guess where they are appearing. The plan is gradualy increase the daily distance as comfort and conditions allow. Our shedule is only a guide and we don't hesitate to modify our goals. Without Vaerie we are all a little lost. No one to our negotiations but I listened carefully and am attempting.
Rain, cool and windy tomorrow and this should be perfect for us. Al this time to think allows me to design all types of exotic, read physical, holidays for our gang. Get ready kids, crazy grandpa wil expose you to all types of chalenges. Karyn has strong memories when I talk about challenges, her immediate response will likely remain you caught me once, not again.
Time on a bike passes quickly, concentration to avoid disasters, but a little time available to examine random ideas, opportunities, experiences, plans, the terrain being covered, decisions and more. A rare opportunity for busy people and it is a mixed blessing sometimes.
Secret key to success in this type of endeavor, chocolate, more chocoate, and then something like chocolate milk. Shocked are you? Well I never was conventional in my interpretation of the science. Just giv"er. RRM
Dat 8 began as al our days, 0400 start to prepare and 0500 start in the rain and temperature 5 degrees. Exactly as we have come to expect, so we are very good at getting the right layers and water proofing to some degree. Today the plan was from Cochrane to Morrin. There are several options for roads and we chose 567 to9, then north on 21 to avoid construction and east on 27 to Morrin. Good climbs, then more level but not as sick as yesterday. Then some long climbs and wind pushing us along like a great propeller. As is our custom in skiing and cycling we each follow our individual pace rather than trying to draft. Yes, we know there is a 15% return from drafting but this works better for us. At each stop we arrive within a very few minutes of each other, and Bob's your uncle.
Today at second stop no Tom, 15 minutes still no Tom, this after a long stretch of bucking a head wind. Mechanical problems, wrong turn, accident, professional worriers at there best. Retrace steps, no tracks, have faith, he wil call if a problem and procede. Checking every 15 minutes an hour goes by, then 90 minutes, ok this needs some thought, accident he would cal, mechanical problems he can handle well, wrong turn, well the GPS should be helpful. Therefore reach Morrin and expect to see an impish grin waiting at ease. Not so, less than 200 meters later there he is eating a sandwhich and chatting with Jenny. GPS had plotted a different route. Best possible answer.
The early prairies roll a ittle, and some deep river valleys that make for great downhil runs. The expanse is easily 5-10 km, and the farms look ike litte oasis of green and trees in these county sized fields, School buses really are needed here, and picking up the scholars is a dirty job judging by the buses. Yesterday saw a Hummer decked out to the tune of a hundred large. Covered in dirt because the ranch roads go on for miles don't you know. The owner was quick to point out that is was also pratical in the winter. Do you think he winters here, he had no calluses and no chewing tobacco. Probably not.
Drumheler has lots of od bones for all of you fans, our crew at moment is more interested in rest. The town has the amazing land formations that allowed the preservation. Seems a great place for a 2 day stop to learn, or perhaps a year or two.
Several different species of deer sen today, coyote, and prairie dogs. ots of birds, and early in day we can here them, ater the traffic overwhelms them.
Hugh farms, small towns, and not much else visible from the roads. Roads run laser straight for km's and only bend when there are deep river beds and a curving approach is needed. Shoulders not as good and pavement varies frm excelent to terrible, ie Ontario standard.
New binolculars, a birthday gift from Val and Tom extent the vista, but the land overwhelms the glasses. Great birthday parth last night with the Alberta connection arriving from afar. Tony, Bonnie and Braden from Red Deer and Teady from Edmonton, bearing a fantistic cake, on the red bullet, and then with Tony. Chocolate with choclate icing, and fully decorated with roads, motorcycle, signs and all the trimmings, most important tasted great. Seconds for certain. Thanks Teady.
We are feeling more con fident as our strength and stamina is tested and found adequate. Tom is amused to find the calluses disappearing from his hands. Guess where they are appearing. The plan is gradualy increase the daily distance as comfort and conditions allow. Our shedule is only a guide and we don't hesitate to modify our goals. Without Vaerie we are all a little lost. No one to our negotiations but I listened carefully and am attempting.
Rain, cool and windy tomorrow and this should be perfect for us. Al this time to think allows me to design all types of exotic, read physical, holidays for our gang. Get ready kids, crazy grandpa wil expose you to all types of chalenges. Karyn has strong memories when I talk about challenges, her immediate response will likely remain you caught me once, not again.
Time on a bike passes quickly, concentration to avoid disasters, but a little time available to examine random ideas, opportunities, experiences, plans, the terrain being covered, decisions and more. A rare opportunity for busy people and it is a mixed blessing sometimes.
Secret key to success in this type of endeavor, chocolate, more chocoate, and then something like chocolate milk. Shocked are you? Well I never was conventional in my interpretation of the science. Just giv"er. RRM
Monday, June 7, 2010
day 7, finish RRM
HI-YAA,mR BEAR ACKNOWLEGED MY PRESCENCE WITH A CURIOUS STARE BUT NO MOVEMENT. I passed within 2 meters of him, staring each other in the eye, and surprisingly neither afraid. However I didn't ring the bike bell for fear he would think it was a dinner bell.
Uphill for 69 km, map indicated 55, I wish,cold but otherwise good cycling and reached the summit of Rogers Pass easily. (1340 meters). After a late breakfast at an old style Lodge, very high end, we began the long descent at 60 kph, maximum was 69.9 kph. Warmer now and wearing only shorts and tops we completed the last 50 km to Golden.
the snow peaked mountain tops are as regular as pickets on fence and truly awesome. Forests everywhere aned many streams from small to massive. There are a few homes but not many visible from road. Mountain rivers are very different from those of middle Canada. Swift currents, and snad bars and often through deep gourges , they are not navigable except to Trent and other skilled folk.
Tom is the ideal cycling partner, strong and willing, always happy, and never a complaint. We are able to go for hours without a word of verbal communication. A good thing as the noise of the trains, trucks, pickups, cars, waterfalls would drive a chatterbug to distraction by the silence.
Golden treated us well, town of 5000 people, with that again in the district. Much more than visible from highway. Probably a thousand hotel/motel rooms, filled from the highway, and people come here to ski. We are already growing tired of restaurant food, especially the salt content. Tom cooked chicken breasts last night and we did steaks on a barbeque on a patio of the Ponderosa motel. Snow peaked mountains for a back drop and not a bug to be had. We live in eastern Ontario because?
Had a long vconversation with the owner of the Motel, he joined us on the patio. He moved from New Delhi 40 yeARS AGO. a trained computer worker. He couldn't find work, ended working 17 years in lumber industry and won provincial recognition, Now wns this and other motels. Has 3 children, all doing well in Surrey, B.C. Also had the Governor Generals award for years of volunteer work with the ambulance service. Impressive and all the more as his approach to live is very similar to our own, Strong support of education and heath.
Time to sign off, Tony and Teady for a vsit and supper.
High milage days to start tomorrow, averaging 200-250 daily for next 2 weeks. Our best to everyone.
Uphill for 69 km, map indicated 55, I wish,cold but otherwise good cycling and reached the summit of Rogers Pass easily. (1340 meters). After a late breakfast at an old style Lodge, very high end, we began the long descent at 60 kph, maximum was 69.9 kph. Warmer now and wearing only shorts and tops we completed the last 50 km to Golden.
the snow peaked mountain tops are as regular as pickets on fence and truly awesome. Forests everywhere aned many streams from small to massive. There are a few homes but not many visible from road. Mountain rivers are very different from those of middle Canada. Swift currents, and snad bars and often through deep gourges , they are not navigable except to Trent and other skilled folk.
Tom is the ideal cycling partner, strong and willing, always happy, and never a complaint. We are able to go for hours without a word of verbal communication. A good thing as the noise of the trains, trucks, pickups, cars, waterfalls would drive a chatterbug to distraction by the silence.
Golden treated us well, town of 5000 people, with that again in the district. Much more than visible from highway. Probably a thousand hotel/motel rooms, filled from the highway, and people come here to ski. We are already growing tired of restaurant food, especially the salt content. Tom cooked chicken breasts last night and we did steaks on a barbeque on a patio of the Ponderosa motel. Snow peaked mountains for a back drop and not a bug to be had. We live in eastern Ontario because?
Had a long vconversation with the owner of the Motel, he joined us on the patio. He moved from New Delhi 40 yeARS AGO. a trained computer worker. He couldn't find work, ended working 17 years in lumber industry and won provincial recognition, Now wns this and other motels. Has 3 children, all doing well in Surrey, B.C. Also had the Governor Generals award for years of volunteer work with the ambulance service. Impressive and all the more as his approach to live is very similar to our own, Strong support of education and heath.
Time to sign off, Tony and Teady for a vsit and supper.
High milage days to start tomorrow, averaging 200-250 daily for next 2 weeks. Our best to everyone.
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