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Day 1- Ocean Beach to Alpine



 Day 1 is in the books! Great day that started at Dog  Beach and a back wheel dip in the Pacific. Tad, Kathy, and Charlotte met me down there. It was great to see them as we headed out.




The ride was flat for the first 25 miles or so, but hot! Temps were in the 90s with blazing sun and clear blue skies. We separated out early into smaller groups. I found good peddling with Sue and Ann. We also crossed paths with Adam and Kelly, the tandem riders.


Our route took us to through Mission Gorge regional park which was absolutely gorgeous. A nice pass that cut through the mountains and made it possible for us to miss an incredible climb. No worries; there are plenty more ahead of us.




At 30 miles we made sure we were fully loaded with water and electrolytes. I’m not sure if I’ve ever consumed this much fluid in a single day. Then the climb began. On the map it looked evil, almost straight up. In reality it was less steep than it was long. It was 6 miles at about three or 4% grade. It did require me to adjust expectations in order to be successful, so I slowed the pace, looked for shade in order to rest when needed and listened carefully to my body. The result? I rolled into camp around 3 o’clock still with gas in the tank. A shower has never felt so good and I’m sure I’ll sleep well tonight

Comments

  1. So glad that you’re finally on your way!

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  2. This is awesome Lydia !! Looking forward to following your journey ! Pickle juice and Pickles will help along the way for sure !! -Keep pedaling ! Lynn Dreher ❤️

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  3. Love reading your adventure, and will be sure to follow it, even as my own journey begins (Oct 2). I am guessing your new mantra is rise eat drink pedal, shower eat drink sleep, repeat! You are in my prayers for a wonderful and safe trip!

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  4. What a great start. Keep listening to your body. So proud of you. Debbie

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  5. And here I am proud that I did 5 miles on the indoor recumbent yesterday! Hahaha I am excited for you Lydia, Pauline

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  6. Absolutely wonderful!!! Enjoy the ride! Prayers for safety and exhilarating joy :-D

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  7. Love reading about your travels & the landscape. Sounds wonderful!!

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