After a great night in air conditioning, we left our stayover to a 90 degree, 90-mile day. The hills weren’t too bad (until they were) and neither was the wind (until it was). The dust kicked up and the heat beat down, and we even ran into some cold rain— but we all made it and are glad to have showers and a place to do laundry tonight. Plus, we get to sleep on an ice rink (minus the ice) and play a little hockey. Pretty cool!

As to be expected from days like today, the downhills are the highlights. But an unexpected stop by some groups at a local grocer gave those downhills a run for their money. Apple cider donuts, cold water (!), slimjims, pastries, an avocado for Maya, and a huge garden section were enough to motivate us through the final stretch of the ride.

I have to give a huge shoutout to Sour for including a bike path into the ride today. Being able to cruise as a group and not worry about cars is bliss, and the surrounding forest was the cherry on top. Gibby and his group even saw a snapping turtle! Maya also deserves recognition as she lead the last group through the wind, dust, and rain into Albany (technically, Bethlehem— close enough).

Personally, today offered many challenges (i.e. extreme allergies and ITBS) but being able to hang out with the team, take a hot shower, and do a quick run to Walmart for essentials is so satisfying after a long and hard day. Very few things will be able to beat the sleep we’re all going to get tonight, and in the morning we’ll all be ready for another day on the road.

— Marielle