• Miles today 112.1
• Miles total 2519.2
• Elevation today 2392 ft
• Elevation total 104734 ft
• Weather – Soaking rain all day with side wind from the north; temps start 59, finish 55

Today was supposed to be an “easy” day – relatively flat and a cruz. That is if you follow the course! I got all messed up at turn #1, I went left and course was right. I missed my take off group so I was on my own. My gps garmin said to go 6.2 miles to some road, so off I went – I was going SW and I was intense to go NE….ya not good. I get a call from the guides saying I’m off course, then another saying I’m 20 miles behind. Then another asking for location pin – that meant they were coming for me to ride in the van!!!

Here is the text I sent: “You know I am ignoring you – sorry about that. I know this is a mess, but it’s my mess “. I redirected and was going to get to Milwaukee anyway possible not riding in the van. Plan A – ride the interstate, get there as fast as possible – I couldn’t find an on- ramp; actually went under freeway three times. Plan B secondary road that was a straight shot – off I went, totally solo (112.1 miles) and no stops (except to pee 6 times and have a few chews). In terms of a tour, kinda messes everything up!

Oh did I mention that it was dumping rain for entire ride. it was a complete soaker – the car spray was immense!!!

I ditched the garmen for Google maps (props to Google team). Road on completely different roads. Then close to the city, bike trails (which were deserted because of the rain). I arrived at 5 mins to 6:00 – extra miles, extra elevation and an ego barely intact. (I was about 2 hours behind everyone). Close buds met me at the hotel door and received a standing O from the group having dinner in the bar. Highway 18 will be forever etched in my memory as a “fond” remembrance but also knowing that you overcome and you will yourself to do things that seem impossible… but I think more than anything it was the thought of the van – nope, not today!

Next up is a ferry tie across Lake Michigan and enter eastern time…it’s a new day!!!