6:45 drop luggage in Ryder... set off for the first day of riding. Forcast was rain...we're feeling lucky that it barely sprinkled.

Route 30 the whole way today.... decent should most of the way, but some pretty large logged trucks to contend with.

The overlook from Bradley Park... about 22 miles into our day. The climbing was large rollers.

9 o'clock Shot of the Day - This was the first rest stop of the day, 28 miles into the ride. That's "White" the SAG van.
SAG stands for Support And Gear.

Time to socialize in the bike lane. Steve Worthy and Jen Clogston in front, Tim Mueller and Steve Beck.

My first flat... after about 40
miles! So much for Mr. Tuffy's.

Jen Clogston, Tim Mueller and Jeff Armitage and I enjoy lunch at the Wild Cranberry in historic
St. Helens, Oregon.

This morning couldn't come soon enough. It was eagerly anticipated by all. As instructed, most everyone sported their new stars and stripes ABB jersey on this first riding day. Following a pancake breakfast at 6:00 we took our group shot on the deck overlooking the wharf on the Columbia River. Everyone was thrilled the forcasted rain stayed in the dark clouds. Barely a sprinkle was felt throughout the day.
We road with some old friends from the 2000 ABB Cross Country Challenge; Jen Clogston and Steve Worthy as well as many new friends. Excitement and pent up energy enabled us to arrive in St. Helens at 12:00.
The rest of the day included doing laundry, enjoying an icecream milkshake , socializing, and visiting with friends from Portland who came to St. Helens to wish us well.

Tim's biking buddies from Portland stopped by to visit. Its fun sharing the adventure with friends. L to R
Bruce Pearson, Cathy, Tim, Karen and Dan Donahue.

A billboard welcome from the hotel in St. Helens. Out front is Jean and Bill Manning of NH.