Emergency surgery...

The doctor at work.

My bike had bottom bracket surgery this afternoon, performed by our tour co-leader and very capable mechanic Ken Wright.  The bottom bracket is a significant bike component, as it is where the pedals attach to the bike.  It is a bit of a mystery how I didn’t notice when riding the bike, and my mechanic at home failed to catch it, but when Ken was assembling my bike in St. Augustine, he spotted the problem and gave me a temporary fix until we got to Gainesville, where he had located a bike co-op where used bikes are repaired, so they are well stocked with parts for older bikes.  And to add to my luck, the shop was just off the bike path.  I think I am good now for the next 3000 miles or so.

Today didn’t feel or look like a Florida post card, as it was cold and rainy.  We rode 58 miles from Patalka to Gainesville, after waiting out a morning rain.  We didn’t get rained on riding, but the temperature was a fairly constant 57-58 degrees, the sun didn’t shine, and the wind blew enough that I wished I had warmer gloves.  Fortunately, the ride was mainly on nice country roads and good bike trails, and my legs are feeling better than I had expected.

John G. and I on a wet trail.  We had detour at one point because of high water on the trail.

This guy looks to me like an Elvis imitator.

Well bundled up bikers digging in to a hearty lunch spread.  On most days, the support vehicle stops at a designated spot and our great crew puts out lunch for us.

Carol, who at 77 is the oldest woman in the group, riding through the pretty little town of Melrose.  She is a strong rider with lots of experience.