Blazin' Saddle 75

 Blazin' Saddle

Granbury, Texas

August 3, 2019

 Big turnout. All the car lots were full plus the overflow lots.

 Milling time.

 Staging area. At one time there was to be a staggered start. However, something changed and there was a mass start. 

 At 7:30, everyone started at the same time.

 After a few inclines, lines started to spread out.

 At the outset, there was a light sprinkle. 

 Overcast day kept the temperature down somewhat. 

 Lots of rollers. 

 Granbury had some good scenery.

 

 On a slight decline, I heard a "On your left" and Christine flew by. 

 This was the second rest stop as we continued without stopping at the first one.

 Just as we left the rest stop, Christine's controls stopped working. She was going to SAG in and told me to go on. For the record at that point, she had gone 17.45 miles, average 16.8, with a max speed of 38.5. But sadly, her day was over.

 I continued on and just tried to enjoy the ride and countryside.

 And the hills.

  Thankfully the water was running under the bridge. The 75 milers had a low water crossing with 2-3 inches. 

 Lots of long ribbons. The average was about 5% incline.

 At one point in the course there was an 18% climb that one could circumvent if desired. One had to be careful not to follow anyone closely as many riders would suddenly stall out and dismount.

 

  Not sure if this was the last rest stop,, but all were well stocked and had Oreo cookies, so I was completely satisfied. Volunteers at all the stops were friendly and helpful.

 Farmer didn't seem to mind that I took his picture while he was having to reload his lost cargo. He was forklifting the spilled hay back onto the trailer.

 Good horse and cow pastures. 

 

 

 

 Not sure if this was a mansion, hotel, or restaurant, but whatever, it was going to be pretty.

 I wonder what this farmer's political stand is? 

 It wasn't all uphill.

 But a lot of it was. 

 Besides the rest stop volunteers, traffic control personnel were outstanding. Hopefully one can see the flashing lights and traffic backed up allowing us to cross the highway unimpeded. Thanks, police and patient drivers. 

 Close to the end and overflow cars can be seen.  

 Just before the finish, I thought I would take another picture of my Garmin. It shows 17.3 speed, distance of 44.82, and an average of 17.4 mph. It was a nice, easy pace as I wanted to enjoy the ride and scenery. Both were nice.  

Coming up to the finish line. Only thing missing was Christine who arrived shortly by SAG. But all ended well with pizza served under the tent on the right and choice of drinks. In addition to thanking all of the support personnel, Christine and I wish to thank our gracious hosts Keith and Teresa. Thanks to all for a great time.