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| Foggy Morning Montauk Point, Long Island, NY |
I awoke at 3:45am to a humid and foggy morning. I couldn't sleep- too much excitement and nerves before the start of this big journey! After downing a few cups of coffee and a few bowls of cereal we packed our bikes in the RV and left Southampton. We arrived at Montauk Point at 6:30 and were greeted by a small group of wonderful friends and family for the send off. My father was there waiting on his bike ready to ride with us for the first 20 or so miles. My friends Ali and Cheryl came as well, smiling and energetic as ever (thank you ladies!). Kevin's daughter, Shannon, came as did his wonderful work mates Rachel and Scotty. And, of course, our two RV drivers/crew mates, Chip & Jim were there.
A dense fog hovered over us and made the lighthouse nearly invisible. After trekking down a sandy trail leading to the waters edge, chatting with local surf casters along the way, we dipped our back wheels into the Atlantic ocean. We posed for a few pictures then each said a silent prayer, including one for our recently deceased friend, Andrew Walsh. RIP Andrew.
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Me + Dad |
Around 7:15 we set off, my dad leading the way for the first 21 miles West keeping an incredibly fast pace considering he just turned 75 and is currently recovering from an ankle injury. Amazing!! We rolled through Southampton around 9:30am and received a nice welcome from many people in town. After a quick stop in the RV (the last time we would see the RV until it met up with us again in NJ Sunday night) to pick up some chain lube + extra chamois butter, we said goodbye to the east end.
The rain was relentless, pouring down on us so hard it stung. But we laughed at what mother nature had give us and pressed on. We stopped a few times for some coffee/coke and snacked continuously the entire ride. Finally we made it to our pit stop for the night, a Holiday Inn in Lynbrook. A short ride to NYC tomorrow AM then relaxing until Sunday. A wet but great day! One thing is for sure, Long Island is a very LONG island!
