Days 0 and 1 / June 16-17
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On my way from the airport in Portland to Astoria, I saw snow-capped Mt. Hood and Mt. St. Helens. The clear skies accented their beauty. After registration, two men from the technical support team reassembled my bicycle. After tinkering with the cables, they got it running as smoothly as it was at home. Hurray!
The Red Lion Hotel is located on the marina in Astoria, Oregon. All the rooms are facing the Columbia River. After a short rest, I joined some fellow bicyclists for a fish dinner and endless conversation about...guess what? Bicycle riding, of course. Everyone is excited to begin the ride and has been mulling over the same questions. Did I train enough? What will the weather be like? Did I bring the right things?
The following morning I met many more cyclists. I joined a few for the ceremonial dipping of the rear bicycle tire in the Pacific Ocean. I am happy to report that I successfully completed the first 18 of 3,600 plus miles. After the jaunt to the ocean, the entire group gathered for a two-hour general discussion. We were told to remember to pace ourselves, enjoy every day, enjoy the beautiful surroundings, and begin each day with a relaxed approach to the ride and a good attitude. Before we begin the first day of riding in the morning, a group photo will be taken. Well, I am off to bed, as breakfast is at 6:30 a.m.
/Gunnel