2011-05-22 Wadina to Little Falls, MN 80 miles

Today was my first day as Sag (support and gear).  Every 4th riding day, I drive the WomanTours Subaru along the ride route.  Because heavy rain was predicted, I stopped every 15 miles along the route, carrying snacks, fruit, water and extra tubes/tires.  Today was in the low 60's, but the rain did not break very often.  We heard rumbles of thunder now and again, but the lightning did not seem close.  Everyone had the option of sagging for the day, but everyone chose to head out.

2011-05-21 Pelican Rapids to Wadina, MN 60 miles

Today was filled with a lot of rain!  The good news was that we did not have the strong headwinds, and the temps were in the 60's.  Along with the smooth roads today, it was a much better day for riding.  The rain would stop for a while, but not long enough for the roads to be dry at all.  I did not stop to take photos much, but here are the few that were taken:

After dinner, the sun came out.  Just like Minnesota weather...if you don't like it, just wait a minute!!

Fargo to Pelican Rapids, MN 58 miles

  Dave was there to see me off on my first day of riding.

                              

Today on the road we ran into very strong headwinds of 20 - 25 mph the entire day.  Coupled with very rough roads, and hills, it took us 7 hrs 15 min to ride 58 miles!  The winds on these prairies are not blocked by trees or buildings.  Everyone was "beat up" today!  We will all sleep well tonight!

Tomorrow on our way to Wadena they are predicting more headwinds and rain.  We shall see...

Arriving in Fargo, MN

This morning Dave, Coop and I left at 7:00 am for Fargo, MN.  We met Amy Derwinski and Mary Drennen in Rogers, and after our good byes, Mary joined us for the 3 hour ride to Fargo.

After arriving, we checked in, and went out for a quick lunch.

We then went over to the Northern Pacific Bicycle Shop to pick up Coop and Mary's bikes.

At the 1:00 meeting, we met the other riders, and were given instructions and information about what to expect on the ride.  Unfortunately, one of the things we are to expect for the next two or three days is rain!

A short Sag meeting for the sag drivers was held.  I am one of the Sag drivers, which means every 4th day I will be driving the Sag wagon.  The other three days I will be biking.

Dinner at the Radisson where we are staying was amazing.

We are headed for a 5:30 am wake up call, so we are off the get our rain gear set out, and get to bed early!  Dave will be leaving for home tomorrow morning after our send off.