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Day 1: 9/27/16
Coronado Beach to Boulevard, CA - 71 miles
Depart the beach where BUD/S training takes place. Due to injury Blake did BUD/S twice. Hopefully the first 7 days of this ride will not be described as "Hell Week".
Coronado Beach to Boulevard, CA - 71 miles
Depart the beach where BUD/S training takes place. Due to injury Blake did BUD/S twice. Hopefully the first 7 days of this ride will not be described as "Hell Week".
Day 2: 9/28/16
Boulevard, CA to Yuma, AZ - 114 miles
Adios California! Sorry I couldn't have stayed longer. Today's profile might dictate the P3 time trial bike. Let's hope for some tailwind.
Boulevard, CA to Yuma, AZ - 114 miles
Adios California! Sorry I couldn't have stayed longer. Today's profile might dictate the P3 time trial bike. Let's hope for some tailwind.
Day 3: 9/29/16
Yuma, AZ to Gila Bend, AZ - 116 miles
I guess it's time to get serious. The first back-to-back long days, and it looks like there is a bump in the road to start the day off. The time trial bike will stay in the van today, however I will not.
Yuma, AZ to Gila Bend, AZ - 116 miles
I guess it's time to get serious. The first back-to-back long days, and it looks like there is a bump in the road to start the day off. The time trial bike will stay in the van today, however I will not.
Day 4: 9/30/16
Gila Bend, AZ to Scottsdale, AZ- 89 miles
Today's profile and distance looks reasonable. At least the climb will be out of the way early. Definitely going to be a bittersweet day, as I must say goodbye to my lovely fiancée Lori for a few weeks. She has supported this Trident Tour from day one and has put in a tremendous amount of work to make it happen. I appreciate all that she has done and I'll miss her like crazy. Her replacement behind the wheel of the support vehicle for the next ten days will be my son Conner, who moved to Flagstaff, AZ this past year. It will be great to see him and catch up because Conner, bicycles and I make a pretty good team. I told you... bittersweet.
Gila Bend, AZ to Scottsdale, AZ- 89 miles
Today's profile and distance looks reasonable. At least the climb will be out of the way early. Definitely going to be a bittersweet day, as I must say goodbye to my lovely fiancée Lori for a few weeks. She has supported this Trident Tour from day one and has put in a tremendous amount of work to make it happen. I appreciate all that she has done and I'll miss her like crazy. Her replacement behind the wheel of the support vehicle for the next ten days will be my son Conner, who moved to Flagstaff, AZ this past year. It will be great to see him and catch up because Conner, bicycles and I make a pretty good team. I told you... bittersweet.
Day 5: 10/1/16
Scottsdale, AZ to Kohls Ranch, AZ 94 - miles
Elevation gain is on the menu today. Today we start working our way north and east towards Albuquerque, NM. I never could have done that without spell check.
Scottsdale, AZ to Kohls Ranch, AZ 94 - miles
Elevation gain is on the menu today. Today we start working our way north and east towards Albuquerque, NM. I never could have done that without spell check.
Day 6: 10/2/16
Kohls Ranch, AZ to Holbrook, AZ 84 - miles
Perhaps a mid-morning bike change today! The time trial bike should roll along nicely on the long, gradual descent into Holbrook where we intersect with Interstate 40, aka the famous, old Rte 66. My understanding is that you can ride a bicycle on certain sections of various Interstates in the western part of the country- I'll let you know how that worked out.
Kohls Ranch, AZ to Holbrook, AZ 84 - miles
Perhaps a mid-morning bike change today! The time trial bike should roll along nicely on the long, gradual descent into Holbrook where we intersect with Interstate 40, aka the famous, old Rte 66. My understanding is that you can ride a bicycle on certain sections of various Interstates in the western part of the country- I'll let you know how that worked out.
Day 7: 10/3/16
Holbrook, AZ to Gallup, NM 96 - miles
New Mexico here we come! One week down, three to go. By now I should start to have a pretty good idea of how the body reacts to something that it has never done before. I estimate burning 6000-8000 calories per day on the bike. Replenishment will be a key factor to the success of the WBMTT.
Holbrook, AZ to Gallup, NM 96 - miles
New Mexico here we come! One week down, three to go. By now I should start to have a pretty good idea of how the body reacts to something that it has never done before. I estimate burning 6000-8000 calories per day on the bike. Replenishment will be a key factor to the success of the WBMTT.
Day 8: 10/4/16
Gallup to Mesita, NM 110 - miles
Even though most of the day will be downhill, making it all the way to Albuquerque will be a bit of a stretch in terms of distance. I think I'll exercise my brain instead of the legs this day and use the support vehicle to get a pick up 40 mi. outside of the city. We will drive to get closer to amenities and return to the spot of the pickup tomorrow to resume pedaling. As it turns out they didn't build a hotel exactly every 100 miles across this great nation.
Gallup to Mesita, NM 110 - miles
Even though most of the day will be downhill, making it all the way to Albuquerque will be a bit of a stretch in terms of distance. I think I'll exercise my brain instead of the legs this day and use the support vehicle to get a pick up 40 mi. outside of the city. We will drive to get closer to amenities and return to the spot of the pickup tomorrow to resume pedaling. As it turns out they didn't build a hotel exactly every 100 miles across this great nation.
Day 9: 10/5/16
Mesita, NM to Moriarty, NM 87 - miles
The short term goal is to make it to OKC by Columbus Day where we will switch out drivers of the support vehicle again. Today's shorter stage fits into that plan by balancing elevation change with distance and hotel rooms. The route itself takes us south of Albuquerque and away from I-40 as it runs through the city. I once led my good friend Keith onto a stretch of interstate highway near lake Annecy in France. A young German rider caught up to us and mustered up all of the English he could to politely inform us, "That is forbidden!" Such is the case with I-40 as it runs through cities.
Mesita, NM to Moriarty, NM 87 - miles
The short term goal is to make it to OKC by Columbus Day where we will switch out drivers of the support vehicle again. Today's shorter stage fits into that plan by balancing elevation change with distance and hotel rooms. The route itself takes us south of Albuquerque and away from I-40 as it runs through the city. I once led my good friend Keith onto a stretch of interstate highway near lake Annecy in France. A young German rider caught up to us and mustered up all of the English he could to politely inform us, "That is forbidden!" Such is the case with I-40 as it runs through cities.
Day 10: 10/6/16
Moriarty, NM to Tecumcari, NM 136 - miles
Today is likely going to be the longest day in terms of mileage. Fortunately the profile is almost all downhill. My personal longest day on a bike is 153 miles. My experience is that around 100 miles legitimate fatigue begins and interest wanes. At about 125 miles I start to ask myself what I'm doing, while I'm taking constant inventory on what hurts and how much. For this ride the question of what I'm doing is very well defined. Honoring Blake's legacy and raising money for other great men and women that serve or have served this country will be all of the motivation I need.
Moriarty, NM to Tecumcari, NM 136 - miles
Today is likely going to be the longest day in terms of mileage. Fortunately the profile is almost all downhill. My personal longest day on a bike is 153 miles. My experience is that around 100 miles legitimate fatigue begins and interest wanes. At about 125 miles I start to ask myself what I'm doing, while I'm taking constant inventory on what hurts and how much. For this ride the question of what I'm doing is very well defined. Honoring Blake's legacy and raising money for other great men and women that serve or have served this country will be all of the motivation I need.
Day 11: 10/7/16
Tecumcari, NM to Armarillo, TX 128 - miles
Adios Nuevo Mexico- Howdy Texas! Hopefully the back-to-back, 127 mile training ride from Concord, NH to Maidstone Lake VT back in September prepared me for today. As I write this, I'm a bit curious as to how I'll be feeling and what will be going through my mind. I'll be sure to post those thoughts, and other daily tid-bits on our social media feeds listed and linked at the top of this page. While I won't be in Texas for long, I'm sure I'll have some Chris Kyle thoughts. I accompanied some of the Marston family to see the movie American Sniper about a week after we lost Blake. It was an emotional night that will, in my mind, forever connect these two exceptional Americans.
Tecumcari, NM to Armarillo, TX 128 - miles
Adios Nuevo Mexico- Howdy Texas! Hopefully the back-to-back, 127 mile training ride from Concord, NH to Maidstone Lake VT back in September prepared me for today. As I write this, I'm a bit curious as to how I'll be feeling and what will be going through my mind. I'll be sure to post those thoughts, and other daily tid-bits on our social media feeds listed and linked at the top of this page. While I won't be in Texas for long, I'm sure I'll have some Chris Kyle thoughts. I accompanied some of the Marston family to see the movie American Sniper about a week after we lost Blake. It was an emotional night that will, in my mind, forever connect these two exceptional Americans.
Day 12: 10/8/16
Armarillo, TX to Shamrock, TX 101 - miles
Sweet, more descending. I guess I would have earned it by now. We topped out at around seven thousand feet back in NM, so what goes up... Looks like another day for the time trial bike! The bike itself and the rider position on the bike are much more aerodynamic than my traditional race bike. Once I get the TT bike up to speed it requires much less energy to maintain it, or one could just go faster. The trade off would be comfort. Typically the neck and shoulders take on more more weight from the upper body resting on the forearms. The lower back and the areas where the sun don't shine can also become uncomfortable from being in that position for prolonged periods of time. Admittedly, I don't have much experience on the TT bike for rides exceeding 60 miles, so I will have to play it by ear as to how many days, and how long to use my Cervelo P3 TT bike.
Armarillo, TX to Shamrock, TX 101 - miles
Sweet, more descending. I guess I would have earned it by now. We topped out at around seven thousand feet back in NM, so what goes up... Looks like another day for the time trial bike! The bike itself and the rider position on the bike are much more aerodynamic than my traditional race bike. Once I get the TT bike up to speed it requires much less energy to maintain it, or one could just go faster. The trade off would be comfort. Typically the neck and shoulders take on more more weight from the upper body resting on the forearms. The lower back and the areas where the sun don't shine can also become uncomfortable from being in that position for prolonged periods of time. Admittedly, I don't have much experience on the TT bike for rides exceeding 60 miles, so I will have to play it by ear as to how many days, and how long to use my Cervelo P3 TT bike.
Day 13: 10/9/16
Shamrock, TX to Weatherford, OK 101 - miles
Looks like a day for the road bike. The morning's downward profile will be nice to loosen up. The afternoon seems a little lumpy, therefore comfort is on the agenda today. So, in case you were wondering if I had ever ridden 13 days in a row, averaging 100 miles a day, the answer would be Hell No. These are uncharted waters for me. The reality is that anybody with a full-time job or who has raised children just couldn't piece the time together. Fortunately for me, the fine folks at Associated Grocers of New England who own the Sully's stores where I work, have seen the value in this project and allowed me the time off. The distance today is a little too far to make it all the way to OKC, so Conner and I will meet up outside the city in Weatherford and drive the rest of the way in. Conner departs tonight on a flight back to Phoenix and on to Flagstaff. A big thanks to him for committing time away from work and life to support the WBMTT. Thanks C-Man!
Shamrock, TX to Weatherford, OK 101 - miles
Looks like a day for the road bike. The morning's downward profile will be nice to loosen up. The afternoon seems a little lumpy, therefore comfort is on the agenda today. So, in case you were wondering if I had ever ridden 13 days in a row, averaging 100 miles a day, the answer would be Hell No. These are uncharted waters for me. The reality is that anybody with a full-time job or who has raised children just couldn't piece the time together. Fortunately for me, the fine folks at Associated Grocers of New England who own the Sully's stores where I work, have seen the value in this project and allowed me the time off. The distance today is a little too far to make it all the way to OKC, so Conner and I will meet up outside the city in Weatherford and drive the rest of the way in. Conner departs tonight on a flight back to Phoenix and on to Flagstaff. A big thanks to him for committing time away from work and life to support the WBMTT. Thanks C-Man!
Day 14: 10/10/16
OKC Rest Day
Columbus day will be my first rest day of the WBMTT. Columbus found that the earth wasn't flat on his sail to America. However, based on today's profile picture I will be planning on a lot of flat. Maybe I'll listen to a little Bon Jovi- "Oh, Ooh, we're half way there"... Maybe even venture out for some lunch and buy a cheap Kevin Durant basketball jersey. Tonight, my third driver flies into OKC. My best friend since the first grade, whom I now refer to as "Brother Jeff," will be taking on the support vehicle duties. Had I never met Jeff I would have never met Blake, as Jeff is one of Blake's two brothers by blood. While I truly appreciate Jeff looking after me over the next 5 days, I especially appreciate the constant and loyal friendship over the last 43 years, and my integration into his family. It's true that I ride because I enjoy it and for a host of other reasons, but this ride is to honor Blake and the Marston family. Thank you and love you brother Jeff!
p.s. There is another bed in this hotel room- it's just not pictured.
OKC Rest Day
Columbus day will be my first rest day of the WBMTT. Columbus found that the earth wasn't flat on his sail to America. However, based on today's profile picture I will be planning on a lot of flat. Maybe I'll listen to a little Bon Jovi- "Oh, Ooh, we're half way there"... Maybe even venture out for some lunch and buy a cheap Kevin Durant basketball jersey. Tonight, my third driver flies into OKC. My best friend since the first grade, whom I now refer to as "Brother Jeff," will be taking on the support vehicle duties. Had I never met Jeff I would have never met Blake, as Jeff is one of Blake's two brothers by blood. While I truly appreciate Jeff looking after me over the next 5 days, I especially appreciate the constant and loyal friendship over the last 43 years, and my integration into his family. It's true that I ride because I enjoy it and for a host of other reasons, but this ride is to honor Blake and the Marston family. Thank you and love you brother Jeff!
p.s. There is another bed in this hotel room- it's just not pictured.
Day 15: 10/11/16
Weatherford, OK to Shawnee, OK 115 - miles
We start the day by backtracking in the support vehicle to Weatherford, where I stopped pedaling 2 days ago. Hopefully the rest day and the likely massage freshened the legs a bit! Today's route will take me just south of the city and away from the traffic. Sometimes cyclists and motorists are at odds. The relationship can even vary from town to town, so I am curious what that relationship will be from state to state. It is my personal opinion that many motorists don't understand the laws regarding road cycling. It would be nice if driver education programs could reinforce these laws. In addition, I think we need more outreach initiatives to educate current motorists. Given that most cyclists are also motorists, most of us understand both sides of the debate. Cyclists have a role to play in our collective safety by following the rules of the road, and also by employing etiquette such as riding single file in groups when warranted. Even when a cyclist is within their rights, why antagonize someone behind the wheel of a 5,000 lb. weapon of carbon destruction? And then there are a small percentage of motorists who just don't want bicycles on the roads and will bully, brush, breeze, squeeze, startle, throw items, and even strike a cyclist on purpose. We have just about had it with this group. Technology is moving in the direction of rider safety products, and small rear view cameras will help us to get these morons off the road- or at least make them think twice. I for one have no plans to stop road riding for safety concerns, even though I realize that the odds are that it's just a matter of time before I'm hit by a vehicle again. Vehicles have come in contact with me twice, however they were unsuccessful in knocking me off the bike. The back of Blake's commemorative t-shirt reads "The brave may not live forever, but the cautious do not live at all." I'm certainly not soldier material, but the sentiment applies to my view of cycling. Unfortunately, a lot of people have told me that they have reservations about starting or returning to cycling due to motorist safety concerns and that's a shame. Official end of rant.
Weatherford, OK to Shawnee, OK 115 - miles
We start the day by backtracking in the support vehicle to Weatherford, where I stopped pedaling 2 days ago. Hopefully the rest day and the likely massage freshened the legs a bit! Today's route will take me just south of the city and away from the traffic. Sometimes cyclists and motorists are at odds. The relationship can even vary from town to town, so I am curious what that relationship will be from state to state. It is my personal opinion that many motorists don't understand the laws regarding road cycling. It would be nice if driver education programs could reinforce these laws. In addition, I think we need more outreach initiatives to educate current motorists. Given that most cyclists are also motorists, most of us understand both sides of the debate. Cyclists have a role to play in our collective safety by following the rules of the road, and also by employing etiquette such as riding single file in groups when warranted. Even when a cyclist is within their rights, why antagonize someone behind the wheel of a 5,000 lb. weapon of carbon destruction? And then there are a small percentage of motorists who just don't want bicycles on the roads and will bully, brush, breeze, squeeze, startle, throw items, and even strike a cyclist on purpose. We have just about had it with this group. Technology is moving in the direction of rider safety products, and small rear view cameras will help us to get these morons off the road- or at least make them think twice. I for one have no plans to stop road riding for safety concerns, even though I realize that the odds are that it's just a matter of time before I'm hit by a vehicle again. Vehicles have come in contact with me twice, however they were unsuccessful in knocking me off the bike. The back of Blake's commemorative t-shirt reads "The brave may not live forever, but the cautious do not live at all." I'm certainly not soldier material, but the sentiment applies to my view of cycling. Unfortunately, a lot of people have told me that they have reservations about starting or returning to cycling due to motorist safety concerns and that's a shame. Official end of rant.
Day 16: 10/12/16
Shawnee, OK to Checotah, OK 89 - miles
The profile over the next several days looks like an EKG. Let's hope mine is more regular than this! Realistically though, the total elevation gains and losses are not significant, so the rolling terrain might be a welcomed sight in order to make the miles go by. As far as bike choices go, I think that decision will be made on the ground after seeing the terrain and gauging how I might feel. I will be mindful to take advantage of the early day to rest, recover and replenish. The next two days will probably be a grind, so I'll need to make sure that I'm prepared.
Shawnee, OK to Checotah, OK 89 - miles
The profile over the next several days looks like an EKG. Let's hope mine is more regular than this! Realistically though, the total elevation gains and losses are not significant, so the rolling terrain might be a welcomed sight in order to make the miles go by. As far as bike choices go, I think that decision will be made on the ground after seeing the terrain and gauging how I might feel. I will be mindful to take advantage of the early day to rest, recover and replenish. The next two days will probably be a grind, so I'll need to make sure that I'm prepared.
Day 17: 10/13/16
Checotah, OK to Clarksville, AR 131 - miles
Today is the first of a back-to-back grinding days. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't concerned over the nearly 260 miles in two days while I'm this far into the WBMTT. In cycling, it's said that the rider is like a book of matches; with each serious effort you burn a match. I'm looking to get to Memphis with some matches left in the book! Today I could burn 8,000-9,000 calories, so I will be uber aware of nutrition and hydration. For additional motivation I will have brother Jeff in the support vehicle. It also won't hurt that he is a Chiropractor, as his medical knowledge and his adjustment ability might turn out to be valuable resources.
Checotah, OK to Clarksville, AR 131 - miles
Today is the first of a back-to-back grinding days. I'd be lying if I said I wasn't concerned over the nearly 260 miles in two days while I'm this far into the WBMTT. In cycling, it's said that the rider is like a book of matches; with each serious effort you burn a match. I'm looking to get to Memphis with some matches left in the book! Today I could burn 8,000-9,000 calories, so I will be uber aware of nutrition and hydration. For additional motivation I will have brother Jeff in the support vehicle. It also won't hurt that he is a Chiropractor, as his medical knowledge and his adjustment ability might turn out to be valuable resources.
Day 18: 10/14/16
Clarksville, AR to Searcy, AR 128 - miles
Slow and steady will be the motto for the day. Quite possibly a solid 8 hour workday with a half hour lunch. I'm going to steal a phrase that I think golfers came up with, "A bad day on the bike beats a good day at work." I would however, like to express my appreciation to the people back at work (AGNE) for letting me take my vacation all at once, and further supporting the WBMTT. I also want to thank the employees at Sully's who will be carrying the load for the five weeks that I'll be away. Thank you all!
Clarksville, AR to Searcy, AR 128 - miles
Slow and steady will be the motto for the day. Quite possibly a solid 8 hour workday with a half hour lunch. I'm going to steal a phrase that I think golfers came up with, "A bad day on the bike beats a good day at work." I would however, like to express my appreciation to the people back at work (AGNE) for letting me take my vacation all at once, and further supporting the WBMTT. I also want to thank the employees at Sully's who will be carrying the load for the five weeks that I'll be away. Thank you all!
Day 19: 10/15/16
Searcy, AR to Memphis, TN- 108 miles
Ridin' to Memphis... I wonder if someone makes blue suede bike shoes! Sorry for the cheesy Marc Cohn reference. For those of you who don't know, the odd looking shoes we wear actually serve a purpose other than not being able to sneak up behind someone due to the clackity-clack noise they make. Like a ski binding, they connect your feet to the pedals in order to produce a more uniform pedaling motion. That motion is often described as your cadence, and would typically be in the area of 80-100 revolutions per minute. Typically, a 100 mile ride would take me 6 hours (purposefully slower on this ride) or 360 minutes or 32,400 revolutions at 90 rpm. I won't be counting, but I do have a sensor to count for me as the information can be a helpful training tool. For those of you who do know, how many of you haven't tipped over on your bike trying to disengage the pedal while coming to a stop? Hopefully not too many witnesses. My bike brother Keith and his wife Debbie are due in tonight after a long drive from NH. Brother Jeff leaves tomorrow on his way back home. The four of us attended High School together, so we hope to have a nice dinner while we are all in one place- if only for a night.
Searcy, AR to Memphis, TN- 108 miles
Ridin' to Memphis... I wonder if someone makes blue suede bike shoes! Sorry for the cheesy Marc Cohn reference. For those of you who don't know, the odd looking shoes we wear actually serve a purpose other than not being able to sneak up behind someone due to the clackity-clack noise they make. Like a ski binding, they connect your feet to the pedals in order to produce a more uniform pedaling motion. That motion is often described as your cadence, and would typically be in the area of 80-100 revolutions per minute. Typically, a 100 mile ride would take me 6 hours (purposefully slower on this ride) or 360 minutes or 32,400 revolutions at 90 rpm. I won't be counting, but I do have a sensor to count for me as the information can be a helpful training tool. For those of you who do know, how many of you haven't tipped over on your bike trying to disengage the pedal while coming to a stop? Hopefully not too many witnesses. My bike brother Keith and his wife Debbie are due in tonight after a long drive from NH. Brother Jeff leaves tomorrow on his way back home. The four of us attended High School together, so we hope to have a nice dinner while we are all in one place- if only for a night.
Day 20: 10/16/16
Memphis, TN to Milan TN - 99 miles
Today should bring a little boost in morale by having some company during the long days on the bike. Keith will do some if not all the riding with me this next week. I will likely not just take advantage of his company, I'll spend some time riding behind him. The technique known as drafting, can save the rider(s) behind up to 30% of the energy it would take to ride against the wind on their own. The faster you go the better the advantage. Given that this ride is an endurance affair rather than a race, that advantage will not be as great since we will be rolling along at 15-20 mph. Even a 5-10% savings will be measurable and welcomed. My front wheel will be inside 12 inches of his rear wheel, so it is imperative that we have an understanding of our movements, speed and obstacles. In some cases, depending on wind direction, I may even overlap wheels in a slightly staggered position to take full advantage. What we don't want to do is let the wheels touch, that could result in someone on the ground. Keith and I have logged thousands of miles together and have some standard and unique hand signals and gestures to let one know what the other is doing. The result is complete trust in one another without being complacent.
Memphis, TN to Milan TN - 99 miles
Today should bring a little boost in morale by having some company during the long days on the bike. Keith will do some if not all the riding with me this next week. I will likely not just take advantage of his company, I'll spend some time riding behind him. The technique known as drafting, can save the rider(s) behind up to 30% of the energy it would take to ride against the wind on their own. The faster you go the better the advantage. Given that this ride is an endurance affair rather than a race, that advantage will not be as great since we will be rolling along at 15-20 mph. Even a 5-10% savings will be measurable and welcomed. My front wheel will be inside 12 inches of his rear wheel, so it is imperative that we have an understanding of our movements, speed and obstacles. In some cases, depending on wind direction, I may even overlap wheels in a slightly staggered position to take full advantage. What we don't want to do is let the wheels touch, that could result in someone on the ground. Keith and I have logged thousands of miles together and have some standard and unique hand signals and gestures to let one know what the other is doing. The result is complete trust in one another without being complacent.
Day 21: 10/17/16
Milan, TN to Nashville, TN 126 - miles
I've been to Nashville once before. Unfortunately, like today, it was just for a day. It seems like a city that deserves more than a drive through. Sorry Nashville perhaps another time I'll be able to return with ample time to discover your culture of music and food, for now the WBMTT rolls on. Speaking of "rolls" the terrain seems a little roller coaster-ish. There will be over 3100 feet of climbing today but we'll never get higher than 900 feet above sea level. I am curious how the map actually translates info actual riding. I do think I might do some research and splurge for a fine dining experience along the way, why not here. Any suggestions? wmbtt16@gmail.com
Milan, TN to Nashville, TN 126 - miles
I've been to Nashville once before. Unfortunately, like today, it was just for a day. It seems like a city that deserves more than a drive through. Sorry Nashville perhaps another time I'll be able to return with ample time to discover your culture of music and food, for now the WBMTT rolls on. Speaking of "rolls" the terrain seems a little roller coaster-ish. There will be over 3100 feet of climbing today but we'll never get higher than 900 feet above sea level. I am curious how the map actually translates info actual riding. I do think I might do some research and splurge for a fine dining experience along the way, why not here. Any suggestions? wmbtt16@gmail.com
Day 22: 10/18/16
Nashville, TN to Cookeville, TN 90 - miles
Today's route is on the shorter side as we move our way east. In the last 10 miles there is a bump in the road just to let us know that we did something today. The route plan takes into consideration the Great Smokey Mountains looming on the horizon. Other factors still include towns with accommodation options and amenities. As mentioned earlier the daily calorie burn needs to be addressed. Most of the stop/start towns will have suitable options. I will have to rely heavily on the support vehicle driver to scope out dining and breakfast options on a daily basis. At the same time we will be prepared with some "go to" foods on hand at all times. We will have at our disposal carbs such as pasta and rice, breads and bagels, muffins and I don't think banana bread ever killed anyone. The protein options may include both shelf stable items like tuna and almond/peanut butter/Nuetella and perishable items like turkey and a salty meat like ham. There will be plenty of gels and other sports energy foods. Bananas will be in the mix and fig newtons seem to work for me. Ultimately it comes down to preference. Chances are if you don't like it or if it unsettles your stomach, you won't intake whatever your body might need to operate. I'll look to get the fruits and veggies at night or in the morning and I have a compliment of supplements to fill the gaps. Thanks in advance to all the support drivers for the critical role they will play which goes well beyond a broken chain or a flat tire.
Nashville, TN to Cookeville, TN 90 - miles
Today's route is on the shorter side as we move our way east. In the last 10 miles there is a bump in the road just to let us know that we did something today. The route plan takes into consideration the Great Smokey Mountains looming on the horizon. Other factors still include towns with accommodation options and amenities. As mentioned earlier the daily calorie burn needs to be addressed. Most of the stop/start towns will have suitable options. I will have to rely heavily on the support vehicle driver to scope out dining and breakfast options on a daily basis. At the same time we will be prepared with some "go to" foods on hand at all times. We will have at our disposal carbs such as pasta and rice, breads and bagels, muffins and I don't think banana bread ever killed anyone. The protein options may include both shelf stable items like tuna and almond/peanut butter/Nuetella and perishable items like turkey and a salty meat like ham. There will be plenty of gels and other sports energy foods. Bananas will be in the mix and fig newtons seem to work for me. Ultimately it comes down to preference. Chances are if you don't like it or if it unsettles your stomach, you won't intake whatever your body might need to operate. I'll look to get the fruits and veggies at night or in the morning and I have a compliment of supplements to fill the gaps. Thanks in advance to all the support drivers for the critical role they will play which goes well beyond a broken chain or a flat tire.
Day 23: 10/19/16
Cookeville, TN to Knoxsville, TN 110 - miles
Profile looks reasonable but I know from driving in Tennessee that it rolls. Having my bike brother with me will be a great resource to pace me and take on the wind. Now that I have already ridden a couple of days in the Volunteer state, I can tell you without question that the motorists are so far the most courteous and respectful that I have encountered. There are always exceptions but almost everybody slows down and moves over often further than I personally desire. Great job TN! Part of the WBMTT is connecting with people and spreading the the word about the late great Blake. We have a planned meet in Knoxville with a gentleman whose brother bid BUD/s training with Blake. We look forward to making that connection.
Cookeville, TN to Knoxsville, TN 110 - miles
Profile looks reasonable but I know from driving in Tennessee that it rolls. Having my bike brother with me will be a great resource to pace me and take on the wind. Now that I have already ridden a couple of days in the Volunteer state, I can tell you without question that the motorists are so far the most courteous and respectful that I have encountered. There are always exceptions but almost everybody slows down and moves over often further than I personally desire. Great job TN! Part of the WBMTT is connecting with people and spreading the the word about the late great Blake. We have a planned meet in Knoxville with a gentleman whose brother bid BUD/s training with Blake. We look forward to making that connection.
Day 24: 10/20/16
Knoxsville, TN to Johnson City, TN 105 - miles
Today we start making the vertical push on our way out of Tennessee. Really looks to me like a warm up for what looms tomorrow. By now I imagine thoughts of the end being in site will start to creep into my mind. However I will do my best to take each day and it's unique challenges as it comes and not look to far ahead or take anything for granite. Humility is a trait of Blake's that I personally could use a dose more of from time to time.
Knoxsville, TN to Johnson City, TN 105 - miles
Today we start making the vertical push on our way out of Tennessee. Really looks to me like a warm up for what looms tomorrow. By now I imagine thoughts of the end being in site will start to creep into my mind. However I will do my best to take each day and it's unique challenges as it comes and not look to far ahead or take anything for granite. Humility is a trait of Blake's that I personally could use a dose more of from time to time.
Day 25: 10/21/16
Johnson City, TN to Yadkinville, NC 121 - miles
So today has been circled on the calendar. Although the elevation at days end will be lower than the beginning, the manner in which that happens will be notable. Most of the 6,000 feet of climbing will occur in the first half (60 mi) of the day. The average speed will be low and I imagine the accumulated fatigue to this point won't be of any consolation. Also we will be back in the eastern time zone so a late start could mean a dark and dangerous finish. Got to get up with the chickens today. The reward for the days efforts, we will be relative flat-lander's for the duration of the WBMTT. As Blake and his brotherhood would say. Hoo-Yah!
Johnson City, TN to Yadkinville, NC 121 - miles
So today has been circled on the calendar. Although the elevation at days end will be lower than the beginning, the manner in which that happens will be notable. Most of the 6,000 feet of climbing will occur in the first half (60 mi) of the day. The average speed will be low and I imagine the accumulated fatigue to this point won't be of any consolation. Also we will be back in the eastern time zone so a late start could mean a dark and dangerous finish. Got to get up with the chickens today. The reward for the days efforts, we will be relative flat-lander's for the duration of the WBMTT. As Blake and his brotherhood would say. Hoo-Yah!
Day 26: 10/22/16
Yadkinville, NC to Raleigh Durham, NC 126 - miles
Yadkinville, NC to Raleigh Durham, NC 126 - miles
Day 27: 10/23/16
Rest Day #2
So the bed for the second rest day is noticeably different than the first rest day. There are a number of scenarios that may cause me to need this style of bed. I suppose it's possible that I was just not physically up to the task and rather than sensibly give in, I will have continued on until hospitalized. Or perhaps today's return of my love Lori will have left me so excited from our three weeks apart, my heart will require medical attention. Lastly the Pats are playing Pittsburgh at 4:25 and when I suggest that we watch the game, my very same love Lori will put me in the hospital herself. Perhaps I should just make a reservation at the hospital instead of a hotel. I wonder what they have for cable? Big thanks to Keith and Debbie for making the very big commitment to drive down and Shepard me through the toughest week. Having Keith on the road with me will be of tremendous value both physically and mentally. He is competitive and driven as well as loyal and generous, sounds a bit like the man we honor with this ride. I know if it's windy I can tuck in behind him for miles upon miles while he bury's himself for me and he knows I'd do the same. If I'm feeling off my game, he will let me know to "suck it up cupcake". If I am riding too aggressively he will suggest that I back it down by asking me, not all that subtly, "hows the race" or suggesting I take a drug test. Debbie is just a saint for putting up with us both and she wouldn't even let you know that it was a hardship. So back to NH they fly but they leave Lori and I with their truck to cart around all the gear that the WBMTT requires. We will catch up with them in a week or so back in the 603. Go Pats!!!
Rest Day #2
So the bed for the second rest day is noticeably different than the first rest day. There are a number of scenarios that may cause me to need this style of bed. I suppose it's possible that I was just not physically up to the task and rather than sensibly give in, I will have continued on until hospitalized. Or perhaps today's return of my love Lori will have left me so excited from our three weeks apart, my heart will require medical attention. Lastly the Pats are playing Pittsburgh at 4:25 and when I suggest that we watch the game, my very same love Lori will put me in the hospital herself. Perhaps I should just make a reservation at the hospital instead of a hotel. I wonder what they have for cable? Big thanks to Keith and Debbie for making the very big commitment to drive down and Shepard me through the toughest week. Having Keith on the road with me will be of tremendous value both physically and mentally. He is competitive and driven as well as loyal and generous, sounds a bit like the man we honor with this ride. I know if it's windy I can tuck in behind him for miles upon miles while he bury's himself for me and he knows I'd do the same. If I'm feeling off my game, he will let me know to "suck it up cupcake". If I am riding too aggressively he will suggest that I back it down by asking me, not all that subtly, "hows the race" or suggesting I take a drug test. Debbie is just a saint for putting up with us both and she wouldn't even let you know that it was a hardship. So back to NH they fly but they leave Lori and I with their truck to cart around all the gear that the WBMTT requires. We will catch up with them in a week or so back in the 603. Go Pats!!!
Day 28: 10/24/16
Raleigh Durham, NC to Emporia, VA 111 - miles
Raleigh Durham, NC to Emporia, VA 111 - miles
Day 29: 10/25/16
Emporia, VA to Virgina Beach, VA 101 - miles
Emporia, VA to Virgina Beach, VA 101 - miles