I have to says this is THE BEST supported ride I have even been on. I
think it was the shoulder massages at rest stop #2; the sani-gel & wipies in
the port-a-potties and by the food; and definitely the huge turbo fans,
cheering, cold wet bandanas for our necks, pizza & snacks, festive
atmosphere, & (virgin) frozen Margaritas at the Margaritaville rest stop.
WOW.
Almost all of the volunteers were the men-folk, since this was mostly a
ladies ride-- they could not have been more committed to making the event a
success and helping each rider complete her distance goal.
We all got great bags of goodies & there were lot's of freebies and
samples-- even Tylenol, probably the most popular. Smoothies recovery
packs, hydration mixes, Prilosec and Antivert....
There were a zillion sag vans, with mechanics (mine was really a GF racer),
drinks, and cheers; I don't know how many scooters, well marked turns,
signs, and safety cautions. They even had wonderful "sweepers" to ride
slowbies, like us, in the last 8+/- miles, which was ever so appreciated,
as it was pouring down, the Natchez Trace has poor drainage on the road, and
we were so, so very tired.
Bill, our wonderful sweeper, blocked turns for us, encouraged us,
offered pushes up the last hills (I declined somehow), and he was determined
to do whatever it took for us to complete our first Metric & ensure our
safety while riding in the downpour. It was the difference in our (Theresa
and me) finishing the last miles in that heavy rain or not.
Thank you all for the DONATIONS, the training rides, the RAM rides, the
friendship rides, support, advice, encouragement, technical assistance,
training tips & strategy, & everything thing else that made it possible for
us to meet our personal goals, and raise money for the Minnie Pearl Cancer
Foundation!!!
Now I think I'll just so sleep between bubble baths for the next few days...
