Great To Have a Companion Rider

July 15,2010,

Day 13 - 114.5 miles

I was excited when I got up this morning because I knew I was going to meet a friend to ride 50 miles with me. As I have found out that really makes a difference. When I went outside I was expecting sun but got a very overcast sky. It did not rain and thus kept the beginning part of the ride rather cool. I headed south with a strong wind at my back. When I got into Spring Lake I saw a group of 6 riders heading north. I quickly turned around and with a strong effort caught them so I had someone to ride into the wind with. These were hardcore bikers and were really moving going into the wind. I didn't know if I should put out the effort to keep up with them but I did. They left me in Asbury Park to turn around while I was left alone to fight the wind for another 20 miles.

Got to the Hook right on time to meet Dick Cohen. At the age of 45 Dick biked across the country so he was no stranger to biking. He has not rode in a couple of years but said he would help me out. He was great. We did 5 ten mile loops on the Hook. Went real quick with company. A big thank you to Dick. So far Bob, Dick and Bruce have ridden with me and those days have been the best. After Dick finished and the sun came out, I headed home. A good ride. Tomorrow will be another story. It is a 131mile ride and the temperature is supposed to be in the high 90s.

Total Distance 115 miles
Total Time: 8 hours and 15 minutes
Total Elapsed time: 8 hours and 45 minutes

Phil