Chickahominy River Park, VA to Ashland, VA
"Hey! Hey! Where are you headed to?"A fellow cyclist yelled at me from across a 25 foot grass median. He was an older gentleman with a bright yellow shirt on. His bike was loaded to the max with massive back panniers and smaller front ones as well. I noticed a bit of an accent, but couldn't narrow down from where exactly. "Oregon, how about you?" I replied. This long distance, loud conversation continued at 10 mph until our paths joined.
Alan was a soft-spoken polite Englishman. Although very composed and not overly excitable it was apparent how elated he was to have met fellow cyclists. He timidly asked if he could camp with us that first night, and possibly ride with us today.
The morning was complete perfection. A remarkable contrast from the day before. Birds were chirping and the sun was shining. I wouldn't feel how badly my ass hurt from the day before for another hour until we jumped on our bikes. The plan was to ride 63 miles to a KOA just before Ashland.
74 miles, physically drained, sore ass, numb hands, mentally loving it!
Miles: 73.54
Average speed: 10.7 mph
Max speed: 25.2 mph