It was a day of ups and downs, geographically and mentally. 164 kms with 2249m of climbing. About 20 kms in the peleton split. Dave and another guy were a bit ahead of me and I thought I was even worse off when about 15 riders, including John, came along and we caught Dave and then the peloton slowed and we bridged up and were all on. I was feeling pretty good about that when I messed up by going onto the gravel shoulder at the first feed stop. Front wheel digs in, I knock the table and stop. Now everyone but for a few stragglers is up the road 200 meters and the good feelings I had about John and I staying with the peloton for 37kms have disappeared. They weren't pulling away but I wasn't getting any closer when a police car passed and slowed down to motor draft me back to the ambulance and team cars which I weaved through to rejoin the peloton. Definitely a good feeling. Then the first big climb started at km 43 and reality set in as the riders disappeared. I rode with John for awhile until 2 guys passed. I hopped on but not John. Dave was up the road somewhere. I stayed with the two guys until km 80 when the second big climb started. Dave waited 20 minutes at the top for us but I was about 30 minutes back with John further behind. Despite the beautiful scenery, absence of sound except for birds, wind and sheep bells I was definitely suffering, as I am sure everyone else was, they were just faster. After I rode alone for 50kms I hooked up with the guy behind me in the overall and we rode the final 30kms together coming in at 6 hours 44 minutes, 2 hours behind the winner (145th out of 150). Dave rode it in 6:10 and John came in a half hour behind me, with a sore foot but earning himself a very handsome black jersey. I'm still second last overall, as the 2 guys in front of me didn't ride today.
Also, there is a mechanic here selling Michelin pro 4s for 60 euros a pair (about 84 dollars for 2). I could probably find room for a few in my luggage if anyone interested in buying them. If so, post a reply today and I will check my iPad in the morning. You can pay me when I get back.
Marcus
Sardegna day 4
Moderator: mfarnham
Re: Sardegna day 4
Hi Marcus,
Loving the reports and can feel the pain and excitement you must be feeling. Way to grind it out!!
I'd take a pair of tyres if you can find the room. John knows me and can put us together when you get back.
Cheers,
Jimmy
Loving the reports and can feel the pain and excitement you must be feeling. Way to grind it out!!
I'd take a pair of tyres if you can find the room. John knows me and can put us together when you get back.
Cheers,
Jimmy