We got a late start today as we went back to Portland overnight and had to drive 80 miles to the start of Day 3. The route started out flat and 15 miles into the ride we had a 1,200 foot descent. As we descended, I could see heat rising off the road. This was a good indication that the climbs today were going to take a bigger tow on our bodies. We rode 112 miles today with a total climb of almost 4,800. The temperatures made it into the 80s. The last ascent of the day was about 30 miles long with grades that ranged in the 3-6 percent range. We finished the day with a 12 mile descent with grades that ranged between 5-7 percent. The temperature had broken by then and the ride downhill was a great way to finish the day. .jpg)
Unfortunately, we will start our ride tomorrow with a 1,500 foot climb over the first 10 miles with similar grades. It would have been very difficult to make it through the day without Larry who provided support. His presence on this ride allow us to travel light. We carry minimal nutrition and liquids as we can replenish what we use every 5 to 10 miles (more often on some climbs).
The ride back to the hotel got us up close and personal with 4 deers. Luckily (and thanks to Larry's quick reaction) the deers and our support vehicle both made it through this encounter and continued on their way unharmed.
