Manchester, NH - Day 51

Hi everyone from Manchester, NH,
Today was a real challenge for most riders! We started the day by passing over the New Hampshire line with a photo op and then continued on Rt 9 for 14 miles. We left RT 9 and then moved through the back roads of Concord, Old Concord, Sullivan and Gilsum Rd. There were two major climbs that put most legs to a test – of course, this resulted in some major downhills afterward. On Old Sullivan Rd. there was a surprise waiting for everyone – a mile long stretch of dirt road that was fairly well packed.
By mile 27 a break was needed and luckily the SAG Stop was there. The SAG was a very pleasant back road pull off that hid a deep hole that was used for trail/dirt bikes. It was quite warm here and everyone was trying to stay hydrated!
We moved back to Rt 9 for 5 miles and then after a rest at mile 42, we rode on Rt. 31 The remainder of the ride was on RT. 31 and then Rt 136 – this part of the day was much easier on the legs and we rolled into the hotel at mile 84.
There was a total of 6000 feet of climb today – it was tough because yesterday had 5000 feet of climb too. Not having those types of climbs for several states spoiled us, but all made it in to the hotel tonight.




First rest stop and Tom and Gerard were busy trying to fix Rick's back wheel - finally put a loaner on for him.


Anyone see the gnome??


This was our second SAG where we were met by Howie (a 2007 CCC rider) and Dan (Judy's husband) - Dan brought quite a spread of food that was enjoyed by all! Thanks!





My bike started here today and came out after the first rest stop - my legs weren't nearly as tired as everyone else's by the end of the day!


This is Christine, a former ABB staff member, who, along with her husband and dog Bosco, came to ride a few days with us. She rode in with me for the last 15 miles - thanks, Christine!


Tonight was a big dinner with the owner of America by Bicycle and family members of several riders. Each of us was presented with a present that represented something we had done in the last 7 weeks. I am embarrassed to admit that mine was a bottlebrush because early in June, a staff member found something nasty growing in one of my bottles. Thanks, Michelle, for giving me your bottle.
Next we were each presented with an envelope with a certificate and several other papers and asked to say a few words about our experience. Many reflected on their individual experiences – all were grateful for the opportunity to do the ride – I, of course, was crying and couldn’t say much more than “thank you” because the guy before me sang a song to Willie Nelson’s “On the Road Again” – only putting cycling words in it. I had heard him sing it the night before and was sad then too. I just didn’t want it to end!


Today’s hurrah goes out to all of you who followed my blog and extended good wishes and prayers for all of us along the way. It was really nice to hear from everyone who contacted me on the way too!

Thank God for the safety, health, and energy!