Monday, May 13, 2013

Inland Empire Bike Ride: Richland, WA

This is our second year of taking this ride.  But this year, as a treat, Jules joined us which made it extra special.

It is surprising that more people don't come from the Seattle area to do this ride--one of the organizers told us that only about 10 people from our area do so.  It is only a four hour drive, and so people could come the night before, stay at the motel Jules stayed at (Wright's Desert Gold) for $50, do the ride, and get back to Seattle the next evening.

The ride officially started at 6:30 a.m., but because the temperatures were predicted to reach the mid 90s, Vicky and I started an hour early.  Jules didn't need to since he is so much faster than us.  He started at 6:30 and did the century, finishing ahead of us even though we "only" did the 75 mile route.  When we do this, it is fun to try to anticipate when he catches up with us.

The ride is exceptionally beautiful--going through farm lands and vineyards, up a steep canyon (Weber Canyon), along Wild Horse Hills, along rivers.  Great support at rest stops and along the way.  

Vicky made a great meatloaf dinner for us Friday night, and then there was enough left for another dinner after the ride.  Then we all drove back to Seattle for mother's day celebrations. 

Vicky's meatloaf:  Yum!







The route is 75 miles.  Vicky got a flat tire ONE BLOCK from the exact same spot I got a flat tire last year.  Kind of weird.  She makes meatloaf. I repair tires.  Division of labor. 


Well stocked rest stops.



Finish line:




1 comment:

  1. I had such a great weekend, hanging out with you guys and doing this ride. So glad you found it, and convinced me to drive way out to the Tri-Cities to join you for it.

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