Fourth Shift: Day 3: Winchester VA to Grantsville MD

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This ride was perhaps the most difficult so far. Setting off from Winchester with two extra crew members, we immediately encountered copious amounts of rain. However, this was a blessing because we also had a few climbs to conquer. After reaching Paw Paw, we fueled up with pizza. Here we decided that we should attempt to avoid the hills by taking the CO and canal to cumberland. At the trail head we met a man who was also biking around the US, who had 5000 miles under his legs already. It was exciting not having to keep climbing, however, it soon turned rought because the trail is dirt and gravel but our bikes are designed for roads. This meant we were working just as hard to keep moving. The amount of rain previously also created puddles of mud and water which soon caked our bikes and person. This went on for 20 some LONG miles. It was perhaps one of the most difficult cycling experiences I had. This trail split our group up, one with cramping, one with knew issues. Once Andrew and I were able to find a road access, we took it. While our goal was Cumberland, our ordeal wit h the trail wiped us out. the last 20 miles of our 84 miles ride would be the most difficult climb. Andrew and I managed to make it with only 12 miles left; stopping in frostburg with exhaustion . here are some pics of day 3