(#2)Today was a very challenging day. Upon waking up and taking a quick look outside, it was pouring rain, with gale force winds. Definitely a depressing outlook for the long 125k trip to Yuanlin.
After breakfast, we all assembled to survey the conditions and listen to the days instructions. The lobby was bussling with A-Team riders installing plastic helmet covers, enclosing feet in poly bags, searching for rain gear or just contemplating the days adventure.
The tone was up-beat and everyone chose to acknowledge and challenge the weather conditions. The ride was on. There was nothing stopping everyone from the tour.
We all did some simple calisthenics then in the rain, mounted our bicycles for the long journey.
For the first few minutes, it was unpleasant, but as we all became drenched in water, there was idle chatter and a new found confidence in meeting today's challenge.
The first leg of our journey took us from Hsinshu to Taichia. We were swept by powerful tail winds so the 60k journey was confidence building for everyone.
Our arrival to Taichia was incredible. We rolled in soaking wet, to Giant's corporate office. The resounding cheers of encouragement were inspirational. We were all welcomed by King Liu and Bonnie Tu, both veterans tour riders, who gave a gracious hug to each of us.
A great Giant Taichia lunch with some advise and guidance from King made the Giant stop memorable. After lunch, we departed again, in heavy rain for Yuanlin.
The strong tail wind kept us moving quickly. We were averaging 30+kph with frequent bursts over 40kph. We were supported all through Taichia by most of the Velo and Wellgo organizations. A great showing of corporate support.
Upon our arrival to the outskirts of Changhua, we were welcomed by the singing of the JagWire organization. They were waiting for us with energy drinks and food to fuel the final leg of today's journey. We all signed a Tour De Taiwan poster, took more photos, then we were off to to Changhua.
Our arrival into Changhua was memorable. The rain subsided, and the sun was breaking through the clouds. We rolled into the Changhua City Center to be welcomed by the mayor of Changhua County, a huge mass of cycling enthusiasts as well as most of the Techtro staff. Accolades for the A-Team's efforts filled the air as the mayor and other dignitaries paid homage to the teams efforts.
With the bicycle riding mayor leading and a police escort, we rode through Changhua and into Yuanlin. Our welcome in Yuanlin was again spectacular. The entire Merida organization was sporting flags and banners to celebrate the finish of a long day.
Local media covered the event and a guest appearance by Ike Tseng topped off a great ride.
All of us in good spirits, but exhausted retired to the Windsor hotel in TaiChung to rest in preparation for our longest stage. 137K from Yuanlin to Tainan.
That's all for today. More to follow.
Bob Margevicius, Vice President of Specialized .
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2008/5/5 |
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