... got bike (jay!), off to Braganca.
The trip up previous times have been partially in the dark and rain, with road under constructions hence this trip was a treat! Blue sky allowed us to really see the beatitful country and the highway was completed all the way north. Smooth sailing. We randomly pulled off due to my attempt on hydrating lots, which luck had it we ended up at a nice local restaurant for lunch (and I could finally relax and continue hydrating :). Ordering is done by pointing to the two locals eating their food, and again I regret not at least making the attempt to learn another language. Pointing and smiling seems to work though and we had a great pork meal.
We arrived in Braganca in 28 degrees and sunshine; feels like a sauna to me, but I'll take hot with a smile after our long lasting winter, even if that means a little bit of suffering on the bike. Got my bike built and had a short spin up the castle and through town looking for sunscreen. Last times the spin to the castle and town was wet and cool, this was much more enjoyable. I love this place; the coble stone streets, the layed back pace of living, the many many coffee shops - it seems so right.
Back at the hotel the riders and race crew had started arriving and some familiar friendly faces. This race is different - it's a race where race crew is here to become your friend, when done you've become part of the TP family and it is very hard to not return. They know you by first name immidatily, your plate number is yours for all time (341 is mine), there seem to about 1/3 of race crew 2/3 racers, and of the racers many are returning for 2, 3, 4 , 5 time... It's my 3rd time, and I know it will not be the last.
Day 0 is registration and a lot of orientation; rules and gps related mostly. Got that out of the way with only one coffee. The 8 hrs time difference is not adjusted jet. I'm wide awake all night but seem to survive ok during the day. Tonight will hopefully be the turning point ....
Looking forward to getting this show on the road...
Happy Riding!
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