Ride details: 82 miles, 6000 feet elevation gain
Leaving Heppner was bittersweet. While I looked forward to getting back in the saddle and the ride into Starkey, I felt like I didn’t have enough time to enjoy the sweet little town nestled between golden, rolling hills.
The community in Heppner gladly let Cycle Oregon take over their entire downtown and the night’s entertainment—an awesome Irish music ensemble—fit with Heppner’s strong Irish roots.
While hanging out around the stage, I noticed a familiar T-shirt on Cycle Oregon founder and emcee Jonathan Nicholas. The design was created by Portlander Justa Louise-Phillips and he bought the shirt from her at last year’s BikeCraft Fair.
As Heppner became just a memory, a new challenge awaited; a 3,300 foot ascent. As we spun up the mountains, elderberry trees dotted the thick forest, the scent of pine was strong and brooks babbled gently. Our first rest stop of the day was in a grove of tall pines. Rest stops that nice make it tough to get back in the saddle.
aka Wonder Woman]
As our climb continued to 5,300 feet, I shared some miles with my friend and neighbor Janis McDonald, aka Wonder Woman.
By the time we descended into lunch at the hunting hub of Ukiah, temperatures soared and everyone huddled for shade.
I bumped into a guy named Sam, who was wearing a familiar jersey (back).
After re-fueling at lunch, staying cool became the top priority. Some locals set up a fire hose which several folks took advantage of. I noticed this lady who took a quick little dip in a creek along the road.
Today was the anniversary of the 9/11 attacks and I noticed lots of USA-themed jerseys. There was even one guy whose bike was custom painted like the US flag.
It was a tough day; hot and lots of climbing, but I feel OK. The old muscles I haven’t felt in a while are starting to wake up. It feels good.
Upon rolling into camp in Starkey, we were welcomed by the Alpenrose Chocolate Milk Recovery Zone. Ice cold chocolate milk after a long day in the saddle was sublime beyond words!
Stay tuned for reflections on Camp Starkey and check out more images from Day 2’s ride.