Sunday, April 26, 2009

Day 37 - Friday April, 24: Live Oak, FL to Gainesville, FL

Miles Today: 76. Total Miles: 2,862. Miles Remaining: 162
Conditions: Hot (89 f.) and Humid. Terrain: Flat Smooth Road
Time on the Road: 6 hrs. 20 mins.



After 2,839 miles over 36 days, today Don experienced his first mechanical problem with the bike. About 30 miles from our destination for the day, the rear derailleur cable broke. Don limped into the town of High Springs on one gear and fortunately found a well equipped bike repair shop run by the local town commissioner. Unfortunately, he could not fix the problem, which turned out to be a damaged shift lever. It appears Don will have to complete the ride with only one rear gear. It's a good thing that Florida is flat!




Not Good News on the Bike Front, but Thanks Jim for Trying

The 30 mile ride to Gainesville on a bike with one gear was not pleasant, but we were looking forward to arriving at the gracious home of Barb and Eric, Young Life Committee members, who were hosting us for the night. Dinner was at the restaurant owned by Steve and Jane, who also serve on the YL committee. What a great evening we enjoyed with them and some of their friends.

Thank you Barb and Eric and Jillian for Your Warm Hospitality
Tomorrow we ride south to Summerfield for an extra special rest day.
Yours on the Road,
Don and Penny

3 comments:

Son No2 said...

Bad luck on the gears, Don!
A hundred miles or so with limited gears shouldn't be a problem for someone who has just cycled across the US. Am mightily impressed!!

I'm even more impressed with Mum, as she has managed to drive in the correct direction - no small achievement considering her loose 'bearings'!!

Well done again!

t

Anonymous said...

Oh man. That stinks on the bike problems. I'm glad FL is flat. Holy Moly.

Hang in there.

Jillian said...

We were so happy to have you both stay with us! It is truly an amazing thing that you are doing for Young Life! Both of you are making such an amazing impact on so many people! Come again anytime!!

Love, Jillian

P.S. Once I tell my Mom and Eric, I know they will want to say hi and the same as I said above!!