Day 3 was a ride with a physically challenging beginning and a mentally challenging ending. Full of variety in elevation and scenery, it was an adventure in its own right. The temperature got into the low 80s, but was completely cloudless and somewhat cool at high elevations, which made it feel a bit surreal in some ways. The team powered through and it was epic to see. It was a tough day, but rewarding in so many ways.
Ride Overview
Mileage: 74.8
Elevation: +4940’/-5038’
General Direction: Proceed north on US 209, wrap around west into Jim Thorpe, Nesquohoning, and Hometown, ascend the first large climb to the junction with I-81 (max grade 11.6%), descend into Mahanoy City (max grade -10.4%), turn north on Route 54 and ascend into and past town of Shenandoah (max grade 9.3%), descend to junction with Little Mountain Road (max grade -8.0%) and turn left, ascend to the summit via Old Reading Road (max grade 11.7%, 0.6 miles > 9%) and descend to Ringtown Mountain Road (max grade -8.9%), move 11 miles northwest to the Susquehanna River and follow it via scenic Legion Road, turn northwest at Danville and follow hilly Route 642 to Milton.
Points of Interest: Lehigh River Valley, Susquehanna River, lookout near Locust Ridge Wind Farm
Tales of the Trail
This was a challenging and adventurous ride, but also one that rewarded every hard climb with a flying descent. We left around 6:30 AM with a beautiful sunrise at our backs and proceeded along forested mountainsides and gorges. The first 40 or so miles of the ride had the brunt of the climbing, and especially focused on three steep climbs and descents. These climbs tested every rider, especially the third which had the most heat and contained the deafening silence of the sounds of the forest amidst a daunting near 12% stretch. Truly a test between rider and bicycle, but we pushed through. These three climbs were met with stunning views of the fielded valleys below and, perhaps the most fun depending on which rider you ask, three very fast and beautiful descents. Riders found themselves gaining more comfort on these or safely opting to zoom (Iv’e seen some of the GoPro footage already and it is siiiiiick). Everyone’s idea of a climb-descent set was changed for good after training in Illinois.
The rest of the ride was mostly either rolling hills or fairly challenging climbs especially after the three largest. A construction stop allowed groups to stop on the bridge overlooking the Susquehanna River and have a unique rest and photo op. The continuation of the ride was more so mentally taxing as the earlier miles placed physical effects for the later ones. In addition, the road conditions and contending with cars were difficult toward the end - a never-ending game of patience and trust. Nevertheless, we were treated with beautiful roads along the river gorge and passed many farmsteads, towns, and mountainsides as we made our way toward Milton.
The goodwill of those we talk to continues to be a source of positivity and assistance to us along our journey. We met John Ancarzski at a rest stop where he stopped to introduce himself. Seeing his iconic bicycle and breast cancer awareness shirt, the groups there struck up conversation with him. They learned that his son had done a similar ride with four people from Pennsylvania to California that was cut short due to a tragic accident. They gave him a hug and took a photo together. We also met Robert Orosco, the head chef at Creekside Restaurant in Ringtown. He donated two loaves of bread and $53 cash from his own pocket. Note: Pictures will be added as soon as I have them. Also while we were stopped there, they even had our news segment from yesterday playing on their TV!
Tonight, we are staying in Milton, PA at yet another Trinity Lutheran Church. A local pizza restaurant donated our entire dinner and we were able to use the showers at the YMCA! We are looking forward to our 56 mile journey into State College and the rest day to follow.
Cyclist’s Corner
Today’s Rider: Paul Leman
How are you today? I’m doing good!
What make and model of bicycle are you riding? A crimson red 2020 Trek Domane SL5.
What is your favorite aspect about the ride so far? Why is it your favorite? I have two! The first is seeing the team come together and help each other out, look out for each other, and make sure everyone is safe and comfortable as possible even if it means going out of one’s own way. The second is seeing the generosity of the stayover hosts, who similarly make sure we are fed and comfortable.
How much cycling did you do before training for I4K specifically? Quite a bit. I got into road cycling three years ago, and throughout college I usually did up to four solo rides per week, usually 20-30 miles long each.
Is there anyone you are riding for today and would like to share a few words for? I’m riding for a rider’s friend who we dedicated the ride for today.
Where on today’s route (generally or specific mile marker) was the most memorable for you? What happened? About two-thirds of the way through when we had a steep climb and descent. The climb was very challenging physically and mentally, but I pushed myself and made it through without stopping which was very rewarding to me. I also achieved a personal best top speed on the descent at 54.7 mph.
Anything you’d like to say to those cheering you on? Thank you so much for all your support! This definitely isn’t easy but it’s your support that makes it all worth it and possible.
Please visit the rider profiles page on the website to learn more about this year’s riders! :)
