Day 2: Waynesboro, PA to Bedford PA

Monday, May 31

Word of the day: Grueling

It is said that the first three days are more challenging than the Rockies. On top of the sleep deprived 73 mile of yesterday many of us could not imagine peddling…well perhaps ever again. All riders rose to the occasion with admirable zeal…at 5:30 in the morning! (different than my normal schedule to be sure) Packing the bags and stuffing our faces with a generously supplied breakfast went smoothly with everyone contributing a hand. Our first dedication circle came and went leaving everyone inspired and “ready” to get back in to the saddle. The first 30 miles went relatively well, rolling hills and a sprawling landscape escorted us to the dreaded “3” hills…in quotations because there were definitely more than 3 and they were definitely 2 mountains. As we passed a memorial parade I was entertained by relaxing memories which fled my mind immediately upon accenting the first hill. I can say in full honesty that I wouldn’t have been able to summit if I had known how long this deceiving hill would stretch on. After the first hill many team mates have share the sentiment that there should be a gear smaller than “granny gear” which seems like top gear on tough assents. Screaming muscles quieted in a super fun decent we all fully deserved…two hills to go…dun dun duuuun. The second hill came, and, traumatized by the first it was a pleasant surprise when what was sure to be more hill around the corner was down hill, then there was ANOTHER hill, atop which we finally ate a nourishing meal found by Adali. Unfortunately the break to a little too long and I felt my muscles practically atrophy which was a frightening state to go into the looming Mountain! Remembering some advice to be understanding and compassionate, allowing myself to get off and walk for the first time which gave me a new lease on life. All walking considered every peddle felt like the last one my body could handle. Finally, upon reaching the top we all were greeted by a well deserved water station and the satisfaction of our first SUMMET!!! Unfortunately we all had 20 more miles until true relief, Bedford PA. I won’t elaborate on the 20 mile haul except for the epic decent from the mountain we had just conquered. Finally upon reaching our wonderful hosts nestled in the cozy town of Bedford PA we were shuttled to one of the best showers I have ever had and then back to an incredible meal from which I was stuffed…it seams we are all metabolizing alarmingly fast. After fascinating dinner banter with the worldly townies Jose and Kristine led our first ----meeting—with additions from a particularly witty spectator. Now that I’m digesting and settled In I can barely keep my eyes open, but I feel sure of an incredible summer to come!

-Amelia Lindbergh