We loaded the gear truck at around 7am, and then joined in a group presentation of a check for $350,000 from this year's riders to the American Lung Association. A huge thank you to my generous sponsors whose contributions were a big part of the check!!! These funds will support the tremendous ALAW programs that promote lung health, do research to fight lung disease, and advocate for clean air policies.
We got on the road by 8:00am. The day's ride took us along the I-90 bike path, over the Sammamish Plateau, and over Snoqualmie Pass to Lake Easton State Park. We rode 79 miles, of which 25 miles were on I-90 itself.
The ride went smoothly. The weather was perfect for riding--high 60s to low 70s. There were 2 difficult climbs--up to the Plateau and up to the Pass But the biggest challenge was dodging the road debris in the bike lane (aka shoulder). Pieces of glass, rusty bolts, and various and sundry car and truck parts on the shoulder were chewing up bike tires--many teammates had one, some two, flat tires. I managed to escape that fate...for now.
We set up camp at Lake Easton and were served dinner by last year's riders. We got a good night's rest to begin to take on Eastern Washington on Tuesday.
All in all, a fantastic start. More to come.
Marty
7 comments:
Hi Marty. Jane of Betsy's Book Group is glad to finally tune into your blog. This is terrific! Your writing style is very appealing, easy and fun. And what you are doing is fan-tab-u-lous.
I will check for new postings occasionally and I will continue the enjoy Betsy's sharing of the latest news. Take care of you and keep up the great riding and blogging.
Hi Marty. Jane of Betsy's Book Group is glad to finally tune into your blog. This is terrific! Your writing style is very appealing, easy and fun. And what you are doing is fan-tab-u-lous.
I will check for new postings occasionally and I will continue the enjoy Betsy's sharing of the latest news. Take care of you and keep up the great riding and blogging.
Marty,
Please say hello to my cousing, David Latner.
Thanks! Gary Kaminsky
Looks like a great start. Go Marty go!
Hi Marty,
This will be fun to watch your progress. I'm busy preparing for my big 4th of July party - with guests arriving on Friday. If you made it through the first day - I don't see that you will have any trouble (that first day sounded pretty challenging with all those mountain passes). Do you get a day of rest occassionally?
Love Sue
Hi Marty. Barb M shared your blog with me. What an exciting adventure you have ahead of you. I see you will eventually be passing through Winona, MN, where I went to college. It's a nice little town on the Mississippi river. Enjoy your journey and ride safe! Jill McN.
Marty, if you have a change of heart, there's time for you to turn south and head for Oregon for the Fourth of July!! Sue will have a tent waiting for you. 79 miles right out of the gate. Impressive. We're all rooting for you, and love ready your clever blog.
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