Terry About To Start The Big Ride

Terry About To Start The Big Ride

Thursday, July 14, 2011

Day 25. Chamberlain, SD. 84 miles. 2,500 ft. climb

A MUCH  better day!!!   In fact, a milestone day, as the riders crossed the midway point.  They're halfway (by tour miles) across the country!!!   ABB set up the SAG stop right at the halfway mark, and chalked it on the road, so no one could miss it.

Terry & Phyllis At Half-Way Point
 After the totally demoralizing day yesterday which sapped everyone's physicial and mental strength, everyone needed this huge morale boost.   In fact, I want to take a moment to acknowledge and give major kudos to all the riders on this tour for their endurance  through yesterday's horrendous conditions--including the several riders that were sprayed with manure as a truck filled with it passed them. Talk about adding insult to injury----YUCK!   They were the ONLY ones to be glad for the rain, but even then, only for a few minutes. Congratulations to all!!!!  Taking my cue from the cheering crowds at Le Tour de France, "Allez, Allez"  (that's "go go" for you francophobes). 
A Much-Needed Milestone
Zippy was in a great mood and fine form when we spoke today.  He is having only occasional, minor aches from his fall and no ill effects of near-hypothermia.  Yep, he gets a lickin' and keeps on tickin'.   He had a great day and really enjoyed himself and the ride. 
Here Comes Zippy

In Fine Form Today
Even though there were still headwinds, the temperature was warm (90's) and sunny.  No Rain!    Other riders thought it was too hot, but for Zippy, it was just an average Tucson day.   And they could actually see the scenery, which yesterday was completely hidden by the rain and clouds.  The scenery was pretty non-existent as it was just endless, straight road with nothing to see, but  what they did see was that every body of water is at flood stage---from the Missouri River and every creek and lake--there's water, water everywhere.   Buildings are all sandbagged (as they were in Wall), and there is definite concern about major flooding. 
Sandbagged Town
 But one thing's for certain---ABB staff and this intrepid group of riders will handle whatever comes their way.
Water Everywhere, Where It Shouldn't Be

Flooded Fields


Missouri River Overflowing

Just two more days before another REST DAY in Souix Falls............and rolling..............The Great Lakes are getting closer!

3 comments:

  1. Well, being helped out of one’s clothes and warmed with body heat doesn’t sound so horrible. David.

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  2. Laura and I have been following Terry's adventure. Please let him know that we send our best wishes to him as he presses on for the second half of the trek. We know he has a big fan club, just let him know we are part of it. Fred.

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  3. Wow!! What a day yesterday. Please tell Terry that we are thinking of him and are perpetually in awe.
    xxx, C.

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