Day 49 ~
Brattleboro, Vermont to Manchester, New Hampshire

Our last big day of riding... tomorrow is the cruise to the Atlantic! We were warned about the hills in New Hampshire and for good reason. Today's 87 miles had over 6050' of climbing; three of the climbs had grades of 10% for at least a portion of the climb. There are several reasons this hilly day was not as difficult as it could have been:
  1. We are all stronger, having ridden about 3,600 miles in the last 7 weeks.
  2. The temperature was in the low and mid 70's, perfect for riding, even though the humidity at times even reached 100%.
  3. The surrounding countryside was gorgeous, so beautiful that it kept our minds from over-stressing about the climbs.
 4. We had companionship all the way; riders that 7 weeks ago were just new faces are now friends with something very special in common... Riding the Northern route across America with ABB in 2003.

The evening dinner banquet was a special congratulatory and farewell event for all the riders. We shared stories, thoughts, glimpses and celebrations of the summer together.

These happy cows reminded us of the friendly cows in Switzerland.
First SAG stop was at mile 28 after two of the tough climbs of the day. We were thrilled to see Barbara in the Ryder truck with the refreshments.. to get us over the next big climb.

9 o'clock shot off the day
Tim Papa and Mike cruise on the
wet and tree lined country roads.
 
SAG stop #2. This was a sensory SAG stop; next to our covered spot is a four piece brass band playing some upbeat music to energize us for the final miles of the day. One of the band members was Staff Bob's brother.
 
Time to celebrate and have lunch at Applebee's Restaurant. The food and fluid was flowing.

After our last dinner together we had an opportunity to present the staff with a group tip, and the staff had some presentations of their own.

 

Here Staff leader Mike is awarding members of the Stop-a-lot team the spirit award.
Dan was presented the US map that was updated daily with our progress across America.

Ania, our youngest member (18 years old) earned the award of the most improved rider.


Nancy and John were the queen and king of flats. I believe Nancy had 12 and John had 16!


These two ladies spent more time in the saddle than any other riders.
They rightfully earned the Great Effort award for their perseverance
and determination. WOW - they are awesome.


The below shots are from a post banquet dinner happy hour to celebrate the completion of this great journey.


Terry and Gerard are always telling a joke and sharing a laugh.
Ania and Matt are the two youngest riders that went the entire way.

Keith of Team Minnesota, and Jenn are excited to be at the Atlantic tomorrow.
Tim and Cathy enjoy the last hoorah before the last day on this tour.