Thursday, July 10, 2008

Day 9 Pendleton to La Grande

Distance Biked Today: 59.04 miles

Time Spent Biking: 4:33

Avg Speed: 12.9 mph

Max speed: 36 mph

Total Distance Biked: 461 miles

After heading a couple of miles out of Pendleton (which Mark and I decided to name Peddleton temporarily) we were greeted with a road that switchbacked as it climbed a couple thousand feet. I rode with Marc for the whole day. It was slow going but we all made it. It was a drastic change at the top from the bare rolling hills to small mountains covered in trees. After another thousand foot climb (ugh, what a lot of work) we rode down the other side. What a blast!

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Since their are no other roads along the way, we took the Interstate for 7 miles. It sounded scary but once we were on, we just stayed to the side and were careful at exits and on ramps. Most of the way was downhill so we really moved along (about 30mph). And yes, I took this picture while biking on the interstate. Sorry mom.

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When we got into town, several others were going for ice cream so we tagged along. Then several of us headed to the bike shop, where I purchased a mirror for my sunglasses. Now I can see what is going on behind me without turning my head. I ended up really liking it to.

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The park where we stayed had a huge pool and slide. It was great to go in cool off, clean off, and relax.

Everyday I am surprised and excited by the beautiful scenery. Its amazing how quickly it changes from plains to tree-covered mountains to canyons! I still say everyday that I'm amazed at beautiful it is and that I'm actually biking across the country!

Also, it's been great to see everyone helping each other. A couple of people have been really struggling with hills and other parts. So, some people have been staying with them, encouraging, and actually pushing them up the hills at some points.

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