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Day 8
Decided to try and set off early today, as judging from the map and the previous days cycling, things looked to be getting harder in terms of the terrain covered. Had breakfast and packed up, however as I stepped outside the hotel I was greeted by an unwelcome change in weather: "il pleut!"
Guess the weather couldn't hold out forever, so I donned the wet weather gear and set off. About 2 miles in and I was already getting soaked, more from the spray off the road than anything else. Opted for a black bin bag inside my jacket, which did stop the rain from getting through, but also stopped any sweat from getting out.
Had some really lengthy downhills, which could only mean one thing... hard uphills to come. I wasn't wrong and the climbs were relentless and unforgiving. I would challenge myself to do a mile before taking a mini break. At times I was standing up in the saddle, attacking the slope with everything I had, including yelling out loud like crazy person.
Anyways, once again I made it through without walking, so I was happy. Found a picnic stop for lunch and attempted to dry some clothes out whilst eating, but to no avail. Instead, just swapped tops over and will wash / dry stuff tonight.
Took a long mid-afternoon break in Maurs as was ahead of schedule, and unfortunately had been informed that the hotel would not open until 6pm, so no real point in getting there early! Plus it meant I could take a welcome break under cover and wait out the rain out for a bit, rather than get soaked a second time.
The last 12 miles or so were fairly arduous, and included one 2 plus mile ascent. Got here just as hotel was opening, so dumped stuff and paid a visit to the nearest supermarket. Sorted food for tonight (huge baguette with meat and cheese), and also have enough food to last me through tomorrow.
Will be staying in 'Formula 1'hotels for next couple of nights, so all you can ear breakfasts... SCORE!
Video blogs:
"Low point" ttp://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UvwIBgp3YW0
"When it rains, it pours" http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MijAPWRD2cs
- comments
Annie and Mike ..we can't imagine the rain after all those hot days when we were with you, but hopefully it will improve today. I am trying to drum up a bit more sponsorship for you after after this fantastic effort. COME ON YOU GUYS OUT THERE
Anne Chris - it's an epic journey. So impressed with your determination and love the giggle on the 'running up the hill'. We could start a competition to name other apt songs - how about "The only way is up - by Yazz". Wish we could do more to help - only thing I can offer is "glace pour mon genou s'il vous plaît" to help get that ice when you get to your next fish market! Tomorrow wind behind you (if I've read the forecast correctly). Good on Annie and Mike chasing those donations - you deserve them.