Today there was a real concern about the heat, as we were heading into extreme temperatures of up to 45 degrees. As a result, the riders were encouraged to leave early. By 5:30 most had taken off. I had sweep duty, which started last night. I had to help with dinner, this morning with breakfast and pack the gear into the truck. Usually, as the last riders we would sweep the slow riders into camp (I.e follow them, going at their pace). But today, a truck did that duty. This meant that when we came to slow riders, we could pass them and go at our pace. In addition there were additional SAG stops so that everyone could refill their water bottles. At some stops wet towels were used to cool people down.
In terms of the ride itself, we followed I-10 from Desert Center to Quartzite. The shoulder is wide, but there was one section, where there were bumps every bicycle length. At one point we crossed the Colorodo River and entered into Arizona. The last section was a steep climb, as even some trucks had to use their four way flashers as they ascended. We are staying at a community Center, with AC. This was a pleasant surprise as we were told we would only have a football field to use and it was recommended to find a motel. (Of course, that is easy for some to do, but not for the young adults. I did not book a room and am glad not to.)
I began today at 6:10, after packing the truck. We did about 120 kms and I arrived at the community Center at 1:15pm. It had no showers, but they set up a canopy in the football field, with garden hoses to wash down with. The water was very hot, because the hose was lying in the sun!
When I arrived, we were given towels to cool down, as well as snacks. Since there was no WiFi at the community Center, I walked to the library, a block away to write this.
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