Before I ramble on today I have to thank everyone who has offered support and well wishes to my blog and Facebook since the beginning of my trip. It means a lot to know I have that support especially on really tough days. Ohhhhhh like, maybe today? I started off in Prineville with the “Breakfast of Champions” a to-go container, the big one, filled with biscuits and sausage gravy, for like a buck fifty. Ochoco Pass was the first big challenge of the morning, an approximately 1,800 ft climb. Although gradual it was probably 22 miles of climbing. I took a pic at the summit sign striking a lightening bolt pose. I little pride never hurt anyone. There are some pics of scenery on my way down the pass and on my way into Mitchell.
As I pulled into Mitchell I was happy to see two fellow TATer’s talking with a local. Jamie and Genevieve are from New Mexico and after recent grad school completion and in between jobs found it a good time to trek across the USA. They were on their way up Keys Creek Summit an approximately 1400 ft climb and steeper than Ochoco Pass. I just got into town to have lunch before I tackled this beast. I had a great ham and cheese melt with a side of tater tots. The only reason I mentioned this is that its rare when tater tots are an option, so you can’t pass them up. After lunch I jumped on my steel horse and began the Keys Creek Summit climb. I don’t know what happened between stopping for lunch and getting on my bike but someone left the heat on and closed the door. It got really hot and what better way to start a 1400 ft climb then with a heat lamp baring down on you, and dry, so dry. My eyeballs where sweating.
On the way down I ran into Jamie and Genevieve again and we coasted and talked on the way down. It was great to share the ride with them. I took off to get to the campground asap, I was melting. Jamie and Genevieve were staying at the same campground I was that night, so I was expecting to see them later. At the campground I met Troy from San Diego. Get this folks Troy just recently started ride a bike again, the last being when he was a teenager. He’s in his 50’s an got a bike and decided to ride it across the USA. Way to find something you just want to do and going for it! The picture at the campgound is of (starting from the left) Troy, Jamie, Genevieve and Me. I had a great time talking with all of them and sharing our experiences and stories from the trip. Thanks guys.
One last thing. Tomorrow starts the TAT race. Yes, there are fools crazier than us that race the route we are riding. The winner last year was Jesse Carlsson who did it in 18 days 23 hours. Insane! No worries, no plans for that in my future. I am looking forward to seeing some of them fly by in a couple days. I am staying in Dayville, OR. As usual I posted the videos to my Facebook page
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=1199608363385159&id=100000080201650
Day 6 – 86 miles
Total 463.9
Hey Don keep up the good work!! Looks like you know what you are doing.
Rich
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Looks incredible! Wish I was there with you!
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Hello Biker Donlan,I hope you are receiving my email replies?Thanks for the pictures of your Rig (bike & trailer).I have been riding my bike every day I try to go around the block 10 times. I have not died yet!!!So just keep going…70 is not so bad.What was everybody talking about????I love to read your Blog and look forward to it everyday.Keep it coming….the stories are only getting better.Tally Ho!God Bless,DAD
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Thanks Dad!
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Hey Don as I said before “you da man.”
Love reading your blog. Keep safe!!
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Hi Don
Obviously you are riding thru slices of God’s world and enjoyng it. Some info and thoughts for you:
1. Not long after we moved here a neighbor did the Pacific to Atlantic ride as part of a pay your way group. Doug is a couple years younger than me so in his late 50’s/early 60’s t the time. I think started in LA and finished in Boston. said he was able to eat 7,000 calories/day and not gain weight. They had vans that followed them with repair ability, snacks, etc and stayed in motels and ate in restaurants. I think cost was $10K or so. 2. Temperature here today may hit 100+ and perhaps 118 in Phoenix so don’t complain. 3. Make sure your nightly comp is bear proof. That means keep food in selaed containers and camp site clean. If a bear shows up yell and look as big as you can. Finally, get a can of bear spray if you don’t already have one. Never heard of it but there is such thing.
Have fuin emjoy the scenery, and stay safe.
Bill
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Thanks Bill. Tell Carol I said hey!
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I never tire of the views. I know it’s even better in person. So happy that you are able to do this, as I am enjoying it vicariously, immensely! Love ya!
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I am glad you are enjoying it. Thanks
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Your mom turned us onto your blog. It is really interesting. We wish you well on your journey and I wish I could’ve done something like that when I was younger.Good luck and we’ll keep following your blog It reads better than a good book. Ken and Pat Schultz
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Thanks Uncle Ken, tell Aunt Pat I said hey.
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