Gunnison to Salida to Pueblo

Riding from coast to coast is a major challenge. Actually it is a series of challenges. Today was one of the big days in our ride maybe the biggest for me. I admit that I have looked forward to this day with excitement, but also some apprehension. These feelings were shared by many of the other riders. Think about it, ride a steep grade for nine miles and as you progress into increasing altitude the air becomes thinner making it more difficult to breath.

During the ride when the scenery is not especially eye grabbing, or the heat is getting to me or a particular part of my body is hurting. I break the day down into segments. I focus on the next ten miles, or the next SAG stop.

When the day’s route includes Monarch Pass at the continental divide I focused on much smaller segments. As I began riding up the steep nine miles grade, I decided I would make it one mile at a time. If I felt like I needed a break after that mile, I would stop get a drink and catch my breath and maybe take a photo. As I progressed it got more and more difficult. I took even more frequent breaks to catch my breath.

Finally the summit was in sight. Well I made it! It was a tremendous feeling of relief and accomplishment. I was exhausted. The summit sign documented the elevation at 11,320 ft. The Pacific water shed is to the West and the Atlantic water shed is to the East. We took our time to get photos and to get something to eat before resuming our journey.

As you can image if you climb a mountain you get to go down the other side. We coasted for close to 10 miles feathering our brakes to keep the speed below the sound barrier. We had to had to pedal very little get to the hotel in Salina.

After checking in and getting cleaned up I still felt unusually tired. Several riders, maybe 5 or 6 had been affected by flu like symptoms causing them to take a couple days off from riding. I had been worried that it might get to me. There was no doubt as the symptoms started. I’ll spare you the details. I didn’t go to route rap, or dinner. After talking with Pat and getting her advice, I got some microwave chicken noodle soup from a nearby 7 Eleven and a Sprite. I was able to eat half of it and keep it down. I went to bed with chills, and aches. I didn’t sleep well. My legs felt like spaghetti noodles the next morning. I knew I wouldn’t be able to ride.

Friday June 20

I rode in the support van along with three other riders that were suffering the same discomfort. We traveled through beautiful canyon country along the raging Arkansas River for the first 30 or so miles. Then we popped out into flat prairie terrain. We have left the mountains behind.

The ABB staff took us sick folks straight to Pueblo to the hotel. This was much appreciated. We got into our rooms and rested. I must say 24 hours after noticing the first symptoms I’m feeling much better. I ate a light meal tonight as I watched those who had ridden eat enormous amounts.

The good news is that June 21 is an off day for riding. I expect to be recovered and ready to go the next day.