Day Seven, Ventura to Los Angeles

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Finishing the Ride

Once again, Charlie and I made it up and out of camp by 7 a.m. I was pushing for us to get a head start today because I remembered the crazy crowds from last year- the day is compressed, with more people leaving at the same time, so things get really backed up at the rest stops and on the road. Charlie and I rode with Liz and Stevo for most of the way, and again made really good time- roughly 16 mph, which is not too surprising considering how flat the terrain is.

Some of the most awe-inspiring moments for me on the ride come from realizing where I am- turning a corner or coming over a hill and seeing a familiar scene, like the main street in Cayucos or the beach in Santa Barbara, places I had driven to in the past. The shudders come from realizing I got there by bike. I got that feeling again riding through Malibu and into Santa Monica.

We climb up out of Santa Monica canyon, which is the last "real" hill, and then there are a few more small climbs, just as a final insult, before pulling into the VA center around 1:30. My boyfriend Shawn was there at the finish line, which was very sweet, and we were joined later by John and John. After closing ceremonies, we went to Brentwood where my friends Michael and John threw a party to celebrate the finish. They are housesitting in this amazing house- which included many things I had not seen in a while: a shower with great pressure, a porcelain toilet, a desktop computer, a poolside barbque, a jacuzzi, and a grand piano. (Really, what else does one need?) They made a wonderful dinner and we sat around singing and playing. Seriously, it was heaven, and such a great way to end the ride.

What's next? Over the next several days I will post some more data (pictures, GPS), to give a little more insight into the event. Thanks again to everyone who supported me emotionally and financially, and thanks for reading!