Continuing a Tradition

Another 5am wakeup courtesy of our Project Manager Jeremy’s wonderful singing voice started us off from Kellogg High School in Kellogg, ID. Today was going to be tough. 105 miles and over 6,000 feet of mountain climbs were on the itinerary. Supposedly one of the toughest days on the Journey. This morning was cold and after we enjoyed our crew chief breakfast we began preparing ourselves for a long yet scenic ride.

In the early part of our ride my paceline enjoyed conversations about life, girls, and funny college stories. As we began our first mountain climb of the day on rough roads, conversations quickly stopped as we huffed and puffed up the winding mountain path. When we reached the top we were greeted by a crew van who enthusiastically greeted us while their van was blasting Miley Cyrus’ “The Climb.” Motivating stuff. However we did get a chance to play four square at the top, a game that has taken this team by storm. I’d like to add that I’m the reining champion, welcoming all challengers. After taking a quick breather we started the descent but the numerous switchbacks and gravel on the road prevented us from going very fast.

After about 20 miles through the valley we began our second, and thankfully last, mountain climb of the day. Thompson Pass, elevation 4,800 feet, was longer and steeper than the first climb but the view at the top was that much more spectacular. Visibility was good today and we could see for miles. This time the descent was a little more enjoyable as we had better roads and fewer switchbacks. I suppose there is no way to ensure complete safety while going 44mph on the way down as the only protection I have is spandex and underarmour but we made sure to play by the rules and enjoy the quick ride down.

Another crew chief lunch on the side of the road was a welcome break near the Clarks Fork River. We devoured our midday rations and hit the road once again about 50 miles out from our destination. All the pacelines were making great time but thunder and lightning forced all of us to rack and ride to lodging at mile 85, about 20 miles outside of Paradise. Thankfully this was the first time all summer we have had to rack due to weather.

The team arrived at Quinn’s Hot Springs Inn and immediately headed for the pool. We had heard about this one and were excited to jump in. At the pool were 5 segmented hot tubs each with its own temperature of water. It ranged from absolutely freezing to standard hot tub warmth. Man law dictated that each of us fully submerge ourselves in the freezing water before we head to the comfortable hot tub. Please don’t make me explain the logic behind this choice, I’m not sure that there is any. After a relaxing hour in the hot springs, we enjoyed a filling dinner sponsored by Denise Moreth of Quinn’s Hot Springs Inn. After that, a few of us decided to continue the tradition of eating ice cream the night before each century ride. We went to the gift shop and pick from a freezer of frozen treats. 15 minutes later each one of us went back for seconds. We’re all eating enough food to feed a small army. I’d like to say how fun it is each and every day on the Journey as our team has really grown close and turned the challenging days into good memories. Time for bed, tomorrow brings us another 5am wakeup and century ride into Missoula, MT which we need to complete before noon to be on time for a sponsored lunch. I’m sure all our legs will be “Feelin’ the Hope” by then.