Stage 3

146.95 miles in 8:07:32 for an average pace of 18.08 mph. I woke up early so I started at 4:10. It was 73 degrees at the start and 86 at the finish. I drank 2.75 gallons and lost 2 pounds. Ate 3200 calories counting 500 just before starting. During each of the last two stages I ate 2600 calories.

No rain and almost no cloud cover so it was quite hot. The wind made the last 50 miles very challenging. I could only go 13-15 against the headwind and the loops that I was taking had me doing that for 35 to 40 minutes each time. Just when I would think that I was not going to make it I would turn downwind and get a much needed rest. My average pulse for the first 75 miles was 119 and 125 for the second half.

Bill and Andrew rode 20 or so miles and really pushed the pace. I think Bill said that we did that lap at 19.5 mph average. They both took turns doing all the work and pulled me along. That really helped me get some fast easy miles done and get me closer to the finish line.

With 20 miles to go I stopped at Chad and Mary's and doused my head in the cold water and refilled a bottle to get me to the finish.

Wildlife: 5 rabbits, 2 deer, and 1 box turtle which I turned around and helped across the road (I have seen too many smashed box turtles).

This morning had one of the most beautiful sunrises that I have seen. The sun was mostly covered by wispy clouds, but the bottoms of the wisps were brightly lit and looked a little like many drops of light that could fall down to earth.

Stage 4 tomorrow is 119.93 miles which should seem short compared to today (which is the longest ride that I have ever done). How it goes will be some indication of whether I am recovering quickly enough and getting stronger, or if I am overdoing it and breaking down.