Chased by a tornado
Trip Start
Sep 13, 2012
1
32
41
Trip End
Oct 24, 2012
Union City, Tennessee
Sunday, October 14, 2012
"Hurry, hurry, hurry" are not the best words to wake David at 5.30 a.m. "We've got to get going early because the weather forecast is terrible and there's a possibility of a tornado". We can hear doors banging, suitcases and bicycles being wheeled to reception. I peek outside and see that it's raining. The tree outside the window is bent over by the wind - but it's warm. What to wear? Putting on rain gear in heat just makes you drip wet with sweat. I decide to ask the pros. "What's the dress code for today, guys?" "Nude?" suggests Tim with the crazy hair.
We are on the road before daybreak. The rain is soft and we've just 80 miles to go - a short day! We add a few miles to the total by getting lost along with everyone else. The road is bendy so when the wind is in our faces it's annoying and hard work, but when it's behind us, it's a breeze!
For the past couple of days we've been plagued with dogs rushing at us. I don't mind them barking as we go by because they are just doing their job but, always a hazard for the cyclist, it's quite scary when they look mean and come hurtling across the road. Trek Guide Dave suggests slowing down but most of us tend to quicken up. I'm lucky because David does slow down and fends them off whilst I sail regally by. We are all more cautious since Brett's accident. Sadly there is no progress to report as he remains in a coma.
The tornado thankfully does not materialise (we'd have to stop riding if it did). The rain stops and we ride through beautiful Fall scenery. The wind has blown lots of debris on to the road - leaves, conkers, fruit, nuts, acorns, branches - and for the last 15 miles it's behind us and blows us all the way to Dover and in through the doors of Mcdonalds for a shockingly good mango fruit smoothie.
Comments
Okay!!! and on to Nashville. Wish I was there listening to some good ol' country music with y'all.
Tommorow nashville! A swank hotel and a day off.
I have a strategy for you, its a little risky, but I think if I were your position I'd be very tempted to give it a go!
Step 1: Find a tornado
Step 2: Cover yourselves in bubble wrap (including the bike)
Step 3: Cycle directly into tornado, then pray (perhaps father Bruce can help with this) that is spews you out somewhere in south Carolina.
It's not exactly fool proof but desperate times call for desperate measures!
KBO
Bruce x