The weather seems to be letting up just a bit. It was in the low 80's. Favorable winds. When I got up today, I wasn't sure where I was going to go after Keene. I decided to put in the Banducci climb. My legs felt average making my way down WTR. It was a bit warm at the base. So, I had to hold back till the higher elevations. The ascent went fast. I had stuff to think about and my mind felt like it was in the zone. The steep sections came and went. I think I was in the saddle more than usual. A bit of strength, opposed to out of the saddle aerobic. After reaching the summit, I pulled over and relaxed for a couple minutes. Guzzled some fluids, stretched. And then headed to OTR. Given that I was sufficiently warmed up. My legs didn't have that heavy feeling. I reached route 202 and then headed up Banducci. I felt good and was able to hold a solid tempo from the wall to the summit. Once at the summit, I took a break for a few minutes. Gathered myself, took on some fluids, more stretching and let traffic by. From this point, it was all downhill, exercising my handling skills. Concentration was spot on. Some lapses, nothing to write home about. Ailments consisted of right hand numbness, some left upper quad/hip soreness, lower back soreness, a hint of left calf cramping. Balance and form felt better. Gear is working great! Other notes, I saw a small pack of riders. I counted at least 6. There was also a tandem with two ladies climbing OTR as I was descending.

Other notes. A Total of 2 MILLION feet climbed on this day! What a landmark!

Other notes. This ride is dedicated to Irene. She passed away today. She was a friend and a welcome neighbor.