| Distance | Average Speed | Max Speed | Time | Elevation gain |
| 51.70 miles | 16.1 mph | 40.5 mph | 3:12:37 | 3960 feet |
Since it was the last day, there were many other people up early. After breakfast, I got ready to go and waited in line for the blue rooms. Unfortunately, several people came out to report that there was no toilet paper left. So I left a little earlier than I normally would in hopes of making it to the first rest stop to use the facilities there. It was still a little dark since it was right around 6:30am. Someone right in front of me crashed after hitting a bump in the pavement that he didn't see. I stopped to make sure he was ok. He was shaken up, but other than that, he seemed fine. I didn't check the map to see how far the rest stop was, but it wasn't until 16 miles in which was almost too far. I talked to someone else who also did the same thing because of the TP situation back in camp. After that, I was able to ride a more relaxed pace, but I still managed to be the first into the second rest stop. I know I wasn't the first to pass it because I saw someone else in front of me go by. I had a quick set of snacks because today had a long option and short option. I was, of course, doing the longer option with the bigger climb, and that turn off was just up the road. The option itself had a warning about fresh chip seal, but it wasn't bad at all. I felt like I was the only out there, but I did see one person way in front of me finally. I never was able to catch him. I got within about 200 yards, but he looked back and saw me. He kicked a couple times, but I just couldn't match his acceleration. Once he was over the crest, he was gone. It was a fast descent into Jacksonville where the locals were dressed in period garb, and the men were wearing cap guns which they enjoyed shooting off. The last rest stop had some yummy fruit and M&M's. The ride into Medford was fast. The whole morning seemed to fly by. Lunch was at the finish line - BBQ chicken. I ate lunch, picked up my bag, showered, and got on the road by noon.
Observations and logistics: The ride was definitely shorter this year. I totaled 438 miles for the week where past rides have been over 500 miles. But the climbs were fun, and the downhills were fast. I think that my packing list is complete. Other than the things that I just plain forgot, I'm glad that I brought everything that I had. The new tent gave me back some room. The cot worked pretty well with the new pillow in keeping my back in alignment which is better than when I've slept on the Thermarest.
See what the Oregonian had to say about today.
Return to Shtuff.