We (1900 riders) started out on Saturday morning. Mike Sobel (participant, MC, and Global TV weatherman) told the big crowd we would have wind at our back and encounter some small valleys. He was wrongs on both counts. The wind was in our face, hard, for the first half. The valleys were not small. Many people had to walk up the HILLS. When Mike Sobel speaks, tune him out. He does not speak the truth ;-)
At the half way points they had big tents set up with soup, wraps, and beverages galore. I can't remember if I actually tasted the food I was so hungry. I did however savour the scenery. There were also pit stops set up every 10-20km.
I got to the end point right around 1pm. Checked in my bike and signed up for a massage. Glad I got in when I did as I only had a 1/2hour wait for the massage. When I was done my massage the wait had climbed to 2 hours. After my massage I went home for a nap and then headed back for supper at 5:30pm.
When you walked into the hall you were greeted with a shot of Jack Daniels and a glass of beer. Nothing like booze to take away the ache in the legs. Dinner was great. Dessert was better. There was a dance but this ol gal went home to sleep in her own bed.
Sunday morning I was up and at it by 6am. Feed, check and let out the animals and then loaded into the car. Quick stop at Tim Hortons and then back to the CRE for breakfast and push off. Was on the bike pedaling at 7:40am.
Hit the finish line with cheering and earned myself a MS carnation sticker. These are received upon completion of the race. There were some participants that had 21 stickers on their helmet; one for every year the tour has operated. Happily parked the bike. Removed the helmet and hit the BBQ.
Enjoy some pictures and self portraits.
Bikers waiting at the start line Saturday morning.
Helmet head Danica. Geez my melon looks monstrous.
MS Tatoo and JD shot.
Dinner, Saturday night, at the CRE (Camrose Regional Exhibition)
Me. 183km done and enjoying my plate of food.
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