When the 4am Wakeup call arrived, we were all dreading today's ride. We all knew it was going to be long and hot, but it went surprisingly well. A had some great guys from
Cal and George Washington in my paceline; we talked and stayed active the whole time which helps the ride go buy much faster. After rolling out of lodging at first light, we saw a daunting sign reading "Next Services 100 Miles;" it might as well have read "Good luck surviving out here, idiot." After about 20 miles we topped a huge hill leading into a valley, and as far as the eye could see, no signs of civilization other than the road could be spotted. My GW friend screamed , "Manifest Destiny!" at the sight of the purple mountains majesty in the distance. We even broke out in a rendition of "God Bless the USA" as we cruised down the mountain at top speeds that would bring Lee Greenwood to tears. It was a patriotic moment to say the least; these were the vast expanses our founding fathers boasted of. It was a beautiful moment. After that moment our ride hit cruise control and the 100 miles went by quickly. It was 114 degrees when we got off our bikes! As we rolled up to shower at the Naples Marina, a few friends and I immediately jumped in the river. BEST DECISION EVER. It was nice cool, the break we needed. We are staying at the Grace Lutheran Church here, and they graciously supplied us with a spaghetti and meatball dinner. Our team is so thankful for such wonderful people like them.
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