Canyyyyyyon!

NToday we tackled a series of long, winding mostly downhill canyons (expect for a couple of sharp climbs, one of which was vaguely similar to those crazy YouTube videos of insane cliff-hugging paths). Instead of a challenge of endurance and stamina to climb uphill, the challenge was to maintain speed while rushing over bumps, rocks and sand, which actually stop your bike. 

And it was 5-10 degrees cooler, made a big difference. 

This was definitely the day when it became clear I need to upgrade my bike. I have what's called a hard-tail, which is basically the kind you know...a rigid frame with shocks on the front. A full suspension bike basically has a shock absorber built into the frame to absorb the bumps. I need that. Big time. I've also got 26 inch tires, and the bigger 29 inchers just cover more ground.  

Anyway, the morning flew by and we had covered 38 km before I knew it. After lunch we had an optional 10 km single loop, which I did, because hey - can't let down my sponsors! Then we headed out to the campground where we had a two hour long happy hour (traditionally everyone brings a bottle) where people took turns talking about  what the ride means to them, their experiences with the hospital, toasts to others for accomplishing things, etc. Then dinner and a campfire and now I'm lying in my tent, ready to crash. 

Now is a good enough time to fess up and tell you that I had some serious on and off lower back pain over the past month. I didn't go to a doctor because I knew that whatever the diagnosis, part of the instructions would be to keep away from vigorous exercise. Not only would the ride be in jeopardy, but I wouldn't be able to train, which amounts to the sAme thing. Well... Not only doesn't it hurt wen I ride, but since the first day the pain is getting less and less. It seems that in essentially stretching it all day, which is somehow therapeutic. WhatEVER!  I won't complain. Just hoping that by the time I send this in the morning when we get back to a reception area, I won't be stiff again from lying on the hard ground all night!

Update! Found a A spot above the campsite with reception so I get to send this out now. Sleeping in the tent was terrible, so they gave me the most Snorry roommate I've ever had. Earplugs blocked out about half and I finally made it to sleep.