50-mile skate was easier than expected: much of the chip n seal surface was improved.
People seemed even more encouraging this year.
Good visit w/ Ann and Wesley.
first 13 and last 16 miles had decent surface.
The middle 20 miles were half skateable.
The dreaded 5 miles of Hwy 44 is mostly repaved with smooth stuff. Headwind was brutal, but it felt good exceeding the expectations of cyclists who were unqualified to judge my performance. I was vain.
A steady cyclist picked me up with 8 miles to go. We were the fastest thing in sight against south wind to finish--it was glorious.
I skipped first and last of the 5 water stations. 20-oz bike bottle was enough for me.
It was a great weekend in Wichita Falls.
_GPS data
Distance: 48.93 mi
Time: 3:12:40
Avg Speed: 15.2 mph
Elev Gain: 768 ft
https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/7385386569
