Saturday 21 July 2007

Day 7: Saturday, 21 July

Butte, MT to Bozeman, MT...[map]
I like descending. I like it a lot.
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Mileage: 100.7miles, Start: 7:30am, Time: 7hr:24min,
Avg: 16.4mph, Rolling: 13.6mph, Climb: 3,441ft,
Weather: Hot & Sunny, Temp: 58-92°F
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Expected another punishing day in the saddle, as my cough is still life-threatening (in a man-ish sort of way), although the bee-sting has topped out. Luckily for me, the day had more downhill than uphill! Big Time Bonus.

Early climb up Pipestone Pass (6,418ft) had me spluttering a bit, but my legs carried me through. Well, that and the fact this is not the first time I've suffered on a bike (smiles...). We also crossed the Continential Divide today and although it's not downhill all the way, it made a good effort for the rest of the day.

At our first rest stop in Whitehall, there was a town fair going on, complete with vintage cars, fete stalls, horse-shoe tossing etc. It was a shame we carried straight on through. But we had descending to do!

It was great descending by the side of the Madison River. There was loads of people on the river, floating on tyre inner-tubes, inflatable dingys etc. They were having a good time, especially the ones that had their beer coolers floating with them! (That would be all of them, then Shaun)

Good recovery day, all in all. Much easier than I expected. Let's hope it continues...

Jim (with a feather in his cap).
Bob (aka Dad). Sorry Bob.
Yes, I know my glasses aren't on straight.
Floating down the river with your beer...
Good place for lunch!

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