Courage Day 1.

Ah, what a spectacular day.

It began with some serious fog, but opened up to be just spectacular weather wise. The expected rains never came, the temps ranged from 58 degrees at the start to 95 on Vail Pass, but shade and cloud cover came in to finish the ride at a cool 75. Almost Paradise.

The second pic was typical for today's scenery. This is why I come here to ride. This is my 4th year, and according to the stats I keep, my best first day by 5 minutes. Promised my fearlesd team leader Rob that of I had a great day, I'd do a cartwheel. He has suggested that maybe I should wait for the end of the tour on Monday lest I break something important. So I will defer.

There are a few notables (at least in my book): new max speed of 42.5 mph; no stopping on the brutal upper section of Vail Pass; and the highest average Day One mph for the 59 miles (14.1). I'm smiling.

My Sister came up to have dinner with me tonight. She met some of my team members and had a great time. The temp was right tonight, and I think she liked the visit. I know I did; thanks, Dave.

As I type, I'm finding things that are a bit sore. Neck, legs, other pieces parts too. I think that a massage is in order for tomorrow. I might actually stretch some, too. A novel concept after riding up mountain passes for four hours, don't you think?

Tomorrow includes an off route ride to the thriving metropolis of Montezuma, Colorado. Look it up. I like to think its a five mile steep pedal to the end of pavement and the blue house, so if its longer, don't tell me. I'll have a full report.

I have once again been shown that the human body can ensure more than you think it can. Today I pushed mine farther than I thought it could go. It performed. A little sore, yes, but there ain't no Vail Pass in Texas.

So until tomorrow...that is all. Sleep well, Ags; this one will for sure.