June 20, 2007 - Day 4

We knew that today was going to be a challenge because we were supposed to pick up our packets with all the ride info, tickets, maps, etc. yesterday. We didn't get in till after 11 pm last night because we took all the time to skirt the storm. As it turns out, that seems to have been a good decision. Many of the attendees that came straight in were soaked with tales of a very nasty storm that wouldn't stop. We got up early and got some breakfast and then got over to the park that was supposed to be the registration site for the ones that register after they get here. We went to the wrong park. It was the right park, but the wrong entrance. We had to go to the zoo entrance. Once there we got in line with everyone else, hundreds of people, and then got a break. A gal came by and said that anyone that had pre-registered could go to the front of the line. As we got to the gate, then let us in and we were allowed to get our packets and get to the starting point for the ride only about 20 minutes late. There we found out that we could not be late because it was a self guided route. They just provided the maps and instructions, the lunch and someone to answer questions. So, the morning rush was all for nothing. We stopped for coffee instead of starting the ride right off. This gave us time to look over the literature and see what was going on. Then we headed out. The ride itself was as beautiful as advertised. They have so many lakes and rivers and streams, and the blue of the Blue Ridge Mountains was very evident. The ride took us across the boarder into North Carolina and back out and then up to Roan Mountain. This is a part of the country with some fantastic history, but no time to see it. I personally felt the ride took in too much distance and not enough substance. When we got to the top, lunch was waiting and it took place on the Old Miller Homestead which has been preserved as it was back then. We were allowed to go down to the farmhouse and get a closer look, but the walk back up that hill was more than I was ready to try after a ride like that. After lunch, we headed back down the mountain, but about halfway back we decided the scenic route was just too long, and we took the freeway back. It was about the same distance, but much quicker. The ride turned out to be over 300 miles and took us till 7pm. I am tired of riding already. As much as I love the ride, after riding 3 days to get here, and another full day here, I need a little break. The ride tomorrow is supposed to take us into 3 different states and another 250 miles. I think we may skip this ride, or at least do our own modified version and check out the vendors wares first. It was recommended to me that I consider getting a new front tire when I had my bike checked out by Greg at Rogersville Cycle back home, but I thought it would be ok. When will I learn to listen to the pro's? My tire will likely have to be replaced in the next few days. So now a new task to add to the list. So if I can get the tire replaced, modify the ride, and still find time to see the fair, I'll see you on the byways....