The big day is here

The past couple days I've finished up most of my final preparations. I got a couple short rides in and am feeling pretty good on the bike. Everything seems to be working smoothly. That picture is all the stuff I'm going to toss in my bag. Socks, jersey, shorts, long sleeve jersey in case it rains, heart rate monitor and watch, extra batteries, mosquito repellent and candle, sun glasses and cliff bars. That doesn't even include a towel, my helmet, camelbak, sweatband, hat and shoes. So much gear!

I went out to Bootyville, which is the athletic field at Queens University where all the riders set up camp. Luke and I found a great spot and set up a tent and table and chairs for all the people who will come to hang with us later. We put up this big Ramblers sign that Luke made, but the tape wouldn't stick to the tent that well. We tried to compensate by using about half a roll.

We were sweating like mugs out there. It was 88 with about 50 percent humidity. The Forecast: Should be almost 90 at the 7 p.m. start with humidity at 60 percent and climbing. There are supposed to be "isolated thunderstorms" with a 30 percent chance of rain. For those of you not living in Charlotte that is pretty much the forecast for every day in the summer here. Some days it rains, most days it doesn't, so we'll see. After sundown the temps are supposed to drop into the 70s but humidity is going to climb into the 80s. It's going to be pretty much the same for tomorrow but in the afternoon chances of rain climb to 50 percent. Well, I'm not worried. I'm going to be sweaty and disgusting any way so what's the difference? I'll just have to take the corners a little bit slower.

I'm pretty much ready now. I still need to run to the bike shop and get a cheap computer and stick it on my bike. I think I might also try and find some place that's still serving pancakes and have some flap jacks for a late lunch. Perhaps the International HOP? Then I'm heading on over about 6. I'm taking my camera so I'll have to get some pictures for you all to see and I write another post to let everyone know how it went. My record for most distance is 104 miles. I think I'm going to be able to beat that this time. I'm really excited, feeling relaxed and confident. I've raised $647 and there are a couple people who said they still may give. Just awesome.