Greetings All, Have reached the halfway point in the journey. We departed
on 23 May 01 at 0700 and quickly departed Townsville. Traffic was light
and the wind was favourable. Completed the first 88 km to Ayr in 3 hours.
From there the wind changed into a headwind and made Bowen in 8 and 1/2
hours of riding and 1 1/2 hours of breaks.
The next day was a fairly comfortable start with no wind and minimal traffic,
but again as the day went on, the wind again turned and became a headwind
making the ride all the more difficult. Arrived in Mackay after 10 hours
of riding. All muscles were fairly sore.
Day three was the biggest section to ride. A total of 239 km from Mackay
to Marlborough. I decided to depart early to ensure I would not be on
the road after dark and so at 0500 I pulled out of Mackay. At 1830 I arrived
at Marlborough. My legs were spent. Any more hills and I would have had
to walk them. Your perception of the land in a vehicle and on a bike tell
you two very different stories.
Today was a short ride from Marlborough to Rockhampton, a nice 104 km.
Didn't push to hard and completed the ride in 4 and 1/2 hours. Have met
a lot of very nice folks on the road who are only too happy to help. Its
nice to know that wherever you are there is still someone who will offer
a helping hand. Regards to all, Andrew
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