July 12 Day 4 Elma, WA to Astoria Oregon 88 Miles 3270 ft of climbing
by Terry Toland on 07/12/11
Todays ride is dedicated to our good friends at BRM&Co, Total Quality Managment. Thanks Patti & Ben. Rough day for riders and support. We managed to find heavy rain in July. Navigated 12 miles in torrential downpour. Sloshy shoes and a 12 mil layer of road grime on our legs.
Even when mixed with Hammer Gel and water, a mouthfull of road grit from the water bottle top is unpleasant. Kinda like chewing glass. Even Kevin found it offensive.
The Astoria Bridge is probably not intimidating on its own, but at mile 86, it was a daunting challenge. We were glad to pull into Astoria, get an espresso, a hot shower and a meal.
We are all grieving the loss of Dianes mom. Joyce Pundt passed away moments after our arrival in Astoria. Joyce was quite ill with cancer and was surrounded by loving family members. Her earthly presence will be missed by many.
This was a tough way to end a really tough day.
So-we have been told by many that the fourth day of an extended ride is the hardest. Lets hope so.
