Day 7: Thompson Falls MT to Missoula MT

 Another beautiful day as we made our way to Missoula, MT. The ride took us along the clark fork and flathead rivers. Another beautiful day with blue skies and amazing scenery.  I didn't stop to take many pictures today as this was a scheduled 102 mile ride with headwinds. So, it was a heads down kind of day trying to get it done. Did I mention stunning views? Loving Montana!  

I was so glad to be riding with Terri today as we took turns every 5 miles until lunch at mile 57.  Then she took the bull by the horns and lead us the rest of the way in.  Just so you know what a challenge this last 40+ miles was, we had a 16+ mile climb with increasing headwinds.  I know I wouldn’t have made it without her!  

We made it and this was by far the toughest day I have ever faced on a bike. Could  be fatigue from hard riding now 7 days in a row, the headwinds but mostly my sore bum!  I was is pain!  The frustrating thing is I have never experienced this before in all my years of biking but this year its been an issue.  I hope I can figure it out soon or it is going to be a long 9 weeks.

Anyway, we made it to the end and for the next 2 nights I am staying in a hotel in beautiful downtown Missoula.  I treated myself to a beer and nice dinner out, got my laundry done.  Today as I am writing this, sitting outside in the sun, listening to the finish line and cheering to a marathon which is just a block away  and following my son Alex as he does his first 1/2 Ironman, it was just what i need to lift my spirits for week two!  

Today’s stats:  101 mile, 3,274 feet of climbing, 

Weekly summary:  3 states: WA, Idaho, MT, 594 miles, 24,935 feet of climbing, 2 centuries in one week(a first) 2 mountain passes, 7 days of consecutive riding, lots of new friends!

Look at those snowcapped mountains  

River views



Ahhhh, been looking forward to this all week!

Love listing to all the cheers!


Alex’s first 1/2 Ironman. He did so good!!!


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